CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — A late-night drive took a dangerous turn when a man was found asleep behind the wheel in the middle of a busy Chillicothe street.
According to local law enforcement, the drama unfolded after police received reports of a car driving erratically near East Water Street and North Mulberry Street. Witnesses described the vehicle as swerving across lanes, nearly causing multiple accidents. Police were quick to get behind the car and follow it.
As the vehicle continued its unpredictable journey, it reached East Main Street and North Watt Street, stopping at a red light and failing to move when it turned green. Upon inspection, officers discovered the driver, identified as Silvestre Santiago, asleep.
When awakened, Santiago appeared disoriented and had difficulty complying with basic orders, such as placing the vehicle in park, police said. Once out of the vehicle, officers detected a strong smell of alcohol on Santiago. They also noted his slurred speech, watery and bloodshot eyes, and his seeming inability to focus.
Santiago underwent field sobriety tests, during which he displayed several signs of intoxication, including lack of coordination and balance. A Breathalyzer test later confirmed these observations, revealing a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .265 g/210L, more than three times the legal limit.
Santiago was arrested and charged with Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI). He faces additional charges for high BAC levels, not possessing a driver’s license, and driving in marked lanes.