DOVER — On Monday, July 29, at 2:25 a.m., a routine patrol along Route 46 took a grim turn, highlighting the sobering reality of impaired driving. Dover Police Officer German Liranzo noticed a grey Honda Civic driving dangerously close to another vehicle. The Civic, later identified as driven by Manuel Velizruiz, 29, Somerville, was following at a distance of fewer than ten feet, a reckless decision that immediately raised concerns.
Recognizing the potential for disaster, Officer Liranzo promptly initiated a traffic stop near Route 46 and Drake Avenue. As he approached the driver’s side of the vehicle, Officer Liranzo noticed the strong, unmistakable odor of alcohol inside the car.
When Velizruiz lowered his window, Officer Liranzo observed that his eyes were bloodshot and watery—classic signs of intoxication. The officer’s suspicions were further corroborated when Velizruiz admitted, albeit casually, to having consumed “two small drinks” earlier that night.
Officer Liranzo asked Velizruiz to step out of the vehicle. Velizruiz swayed noticeably as he stood, his balance compromised by the alcohol in his system. His attempt to maintain composure was futile; the signs of intoxication were undeniable. Despite his claims of being in good health and free of any physical impairments, Velizruiz struggled to follow even basic instructions during the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. Velizruiz failed the field sobriety tests.
Officer Liranzo Velizruiz was placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated. He was then handcuffed and placed in the back of the patrol vehicle.
Back at Dover Police Headquarters, Velizruiz was reread his Miranda Rights in Spanish and was asked to provide a breath sample to measure his blood alcohol concentration (BAC). However, due to technical issues with the Alcotest machine at the Dover station, Velizruiz was transported to the Rockaway Borough Police Department, where the test could be properly administered.
Velizruiz was observed for more than 20 minutes to ensure the accuracy of the breathalyzer results. Velizruiz provided two breath samples, both of which revealed a BAC of 0.11%, well above the legal limit.
Upon returning to Dover Police Headquarters, Velizruiz was issued multiple summonses:
•39-4:97 – Careless Driving
•39-4:50(G)(1) DWI with 1,000 feet of school property
•39:4-89 Following too close
•39:4-50 Operating under the influence of Liquor or drugs
His court date was set for August 5, 2024. After completing the formalities, Velizruiz was released into the custody of his wife.
Editors Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
