Fire Chief Caught Driving UTV While Intoxicated in Fort Myers

Many motorists mistakenly assume that DUI laws only apply to normal passenger vehicles. In reality, you can face this criminal charge while operating virtually any vehicle imaginable. These include UTVs, golf carts, scooters, bicycles, and even horses. A recent incident shows that individuals can face serious legal and reputational consequences for driving UTVs while intoxicated in Fort Myers.

Fire Chief Arrested for Driving UTV Drunk on Christmas 

In January of 2025, various sources reported that the Fire Chief for Charlotte County had been arrested for DUI. Police found him operating a UTV in North Fort Myers while allegedly under the influence on Christmas. The arrest occurred at around midnight, and police initially pulled the Chief over for driving without a registration.

The Fire Chief tried to explain that he did not have a registration for the UTV because he was operating it on his private property. However, the property in question was a 20-minute drive away, and police continued to question the man. During this questioning, police say that they began to smell the scent of alcohol on the Fire Chief’s breath. They also claim that he was speaking in a “thick-tongued” manner, and that he was struggling to form sentences.

After attempting to navigate a field sobriety test, the Fire Chief admitted to consuming alcohol. During this test, the man allegedly swayed, failed to remain on a line, and then simply gave up. The Fire Chief was subsequently arrested for DUI, but he refused to undergo a breath test. According to Fox 4 Now, this is not the first time this individual has been arrested for DUI.

The Importance of Protecting Your Reputation After a DUI 

When approaching DUIs, most people focus on potential incarceration, license suspensions, and fines. However, many forget how damaging a DUI can be to your reputation. This can be a particularly worrying concern for certain individuals. These include fire chiefs, judges, police chiefs, mayors, and various other public officials.

Virtually anyone with a public reputation may need to think carefully about how to approach DUIs. Perhaps you are a social media influencer. Maybe you are a well-known actor or musician. You might be a business leader in your community, and you may rely on networking with your reliable reputation.

Whatever the case may be, pleading guilty could destroy your reputation – even if prosecutors are offering you an attractive plea deal. Consider speaking with a defense attorney before making any rash decisions.

Can an Experienced Fort Myers Defense Attorney Help With a DUI? 

If you face a DUI in Fort Myers, consider speaking with an experienced Fort Myers DUI defense attorney. These legal professionals can help you fight criminal consequences, but they can also help you clear your name. If you work in the public sector, the reputational damage associated with a DUI conviction can be significant. Work with The Foley & Wilson Law Firm – and discuss the most appropriate defense strategies today.

Source: 

fox4now.com/north-fort-myers/charlotte-county-deputy-fire-chief-arrested-for-dui-on-christmas