• 28
  • November
    2011

Over the last few weeks, the internet has been abuzz over a story out of Yavapai County, Arizona, involving a DUI suspect who took what might be described as a rather colorful mugshot.

According to news reports, 24-year-old Michelle W. was spotted driving erratically at around 8 p.m. on the evening of November 17 by motorists in Prescott, Arizona. Specifically, they observed Michelle W.'s Honda Civic driving down the middle of the street, crashing into the curb, and eventually driving on the sidewalk as she attempted to enter a parking garage.

Shortly thereafter, one witness called 911 and the police responded to the scene.

However, Michelle W. did not greet the first responding officer warmly, allegedly cursing at him as he tried to direct her back to her vehicle and shoving him in the chest.

The responding officer's report indicates that he later attempted to place Michelle W. under arrest after she refused to accompany him back to her car, and that both he and another officer had to carry her to the back of his squad car.

Unfortunately for the second officer, he was kneed in the groin by Michelle W. as he attempted to retrieve her purse so that the handcuffs could be properly applied.

After a somewhat epic struggle - and the addition of leg restraints - Michelle W. was taken to the Yavapai County Jail where she was charged with a variety of offenses, including aggravated assault, resisting arrest and "DUI-super extreme" once authorities determined her blood alcohol content (BAC) to be roughly three times the legal limit in the state of Arizona.

A more cooperative Michelle W. then took the mugshot photo that has since caused a good deal of internet chatter: A large grin and two thumbs up for the police photographer.

Stay tuned for updates from our Denver DUI/DWAI blog ...

Remember, mistakes happen. If you have been arrested for driving under the influence, it is extremely important to speak with an experienced Colorado attorney.

This post is provided for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice. Names have been withheld to protect the identity of the accused.

Sources:

The New York Daily News, "'DUI-Super extreme' suspect flashes thumbs up, smile for mugshot" Nov. 22, 2011

The Smoking Gun, "After kneeing cop in groin, Arizona drunk driver poses for beatific booking pic," Nov. 21, 2011