Eustis, FL – On August 26, 2023, at around 01:48 AM, law enforcement responded to the McDonald’s restaurant located at 2800 S Bay St. in response to reports of occupants in a vehicle in the drive-through lane who were unresponsive. Upon arrival, officers found an unresponsive driver in a black Chevrolet pickup truck with a New York license plate.
Sgt. Arnold, who was already on the scene, managed to wake up the driver by performing a sternum rub. The driver, identified as Noah Medina, exited the vehicle but appeared disoriented and unsteady on his feet. K9 Cpl. Cortes also made contact with the front seat passenger, who was found to be asleep and with an open alcoholic beverage in the cup holder.
The unmistakable smell of alcohol emanated from Medina’s breath, and he displayed physical signs of impairment such as flushed cheeks, slurred speech, and glassy eyes. These observations led the officers to suspect that Medina had been driving under the influence of alcohol. When asked if he would consent to field sobriety exercises, Medina declined multiple times. Consequently, he was placed under arrest and transported to the Lake County Jail.
Upon arriving at the jail, Medina was administered a breath test by Tavares Ofc. Carter T29, a certified Breath Test Operator. After an observation period, Medina provided two breath samples, which showed blood alcohol content readings of .167g/210L and .160g/210L.
During a subsequent conversation with officers, Medina admitted to operating the vehicle and disclosed that he had been drinking Miller Lite beer at Ruby St. Bar & Grill and the Dog House Bar in Tavares. It is estimated that he consumed approximately 6-8 beers.
Based on the evidence collected at the scene, including the open containers of alcohol found in the vehicle, officers had probable cause to believe that Medina had been driving under the influence. Medina was cooperative throughout the process, and officers appreciated his compliance.
Driving under the influence poses significant risks to the driver, passengers, and other road users. We urge individuals to make responsible choices when consuming alcohol and to avoid getting behind the wheel if impaired.
