Gaston Police say they have arrested a man for driving while impaired for at least the fifth time. A Gaston County officer says he observed a 1989 Toyota that was not properly maintaining a single lane. This blog has reported stories regarding DWI arrests in various situations, including after an accident or at a sobriety checkpoint. However, Greenville DWI defense attorneys are aware that many DWI cases arise after traffic stops alleging minor traffic infractions.
The Gaston County officer says the Toyota failed to stop immediately after the officer activated his lights and siren. Law enforcement claims the driver continued on down the road for approximately one-half mile before pulling over.
The officer claims the driver appeared unsteady on his feet during the traffic stop. Law enforcement claims the driver exhibited glassy eyes and had the smell of alcohol on his breath. The driver was subjected to a breath test to provide evidence of alcohol content. Police say the Intoxilyzer test showed an alcohol level of .20, more than the .08 limit under North Carolina law.
Police arrested the driver for DWI and booked him into the Gaston County Jail under ,000 bond. The man was also charged with driving left of center and driving while license revoked.
Police allege the man’s driving privilege in North Carolina has been permanently suspended. Police say the driver has at least four previous DWI convictions.
Source: Gaston Gazette, “Habitual drunken driver picks up new DWI charge,” Kevin Ellis 16 May 2011