Police Taser DUI Suspect after Evasion

Early New Year's morning, Arizona native, Matthew Ravia was arrested after being charged with evading police and driving under the influence. Police were first alerted to Ravia when an officer saw him speeding down a quiet street at 2:30am. Though the officer allegedly attempted to pull him over with sirens and lights, Ravia proceeded to accelerate, and then accidentally drift into oncoming traffic as he turned onto a street in the downtown district. According to reports, Ravia reached speeds of 50mph in a 25mph zone as he attempted to evade the officer.

Ravia ended the car chase when he screeched to a stop in front of a bar. He tried to enter it, but found it locked, and then continued the chase on foot with the police close behind. One officer yelled at him to get on the ground, while another cut him off with his patrol car, threatening to use his Taser. After Ravia still failed to comply with their orders, officers shot their Tasers at him. He refused to be handcuffed, and they used their Taser on him again, after which he was taken into custody.

When questioned, Ravia said that he was speeding to try and overtake his girlfriend who had left their New Year's Eve party with another man. Once he was treated at a local hospital for cuts and a split lip, Ravia supposedly admitted to drinking while at this party. Police took a sample of his blood for testing, then transported him to jail for DUI and unlawful flight from law enforcement.

Though fleeing law enforcement is sometimes only a misdemeanor, when it involves aggravated factors such as DUI, it can be tried as a felony. If you have been charged with fleeing and eluding while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, then you could be facing serious criminal penalties. Since such cases are time-sensitive, do not hesitate to contact an experienced DUI defense attorney from Thomas & Paulk, P.A. to fight for your rights!