DOVER – A 42-year-old man, Jorge Leon of Dover, was arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) following a traffic stop early on December 14, 2024 at approximately 2:00 a.m.
The incident occurred when Dover Police Officer Ulises Corona observed a Ford F-250 pickup truck speeding on East Blackwell Street and crossing over the double yellow lines.
The vehicle clocked at 37 and 43 mph in a 25-mph zone, and it was pulled over near 100 East Blackwell Street. Upon approaching the driver, Officer Corona noted signs of impairment, including slurred speech, watery eyes, a flushed face, and an admission from Leon that he had consumed “maybe three” alcoholic drinks earlier at a local bar and nightclub.
Field sobriety tests conducted at the scene further indicated impairment. According to the police report:
- Leon failed to follow instructions during the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test.
- He struggled with balance and proper steps during the Walk-and-Turn Test.
- He was unable to perform the One-Leg Stand Test despite multiple attempts.
Following the tests, Leon was arrested and transported to police headquarters for processing. He later provided a breath sample at Wharton Police Headquarters, as Dover’s testing equipment was temporarily unavailable. The sample revealed a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.16%, double the legal limit of 0.08%.
Leon was issued several motor vehicle summonses, including:
- Driving While Intoxicated (39:4-50)
- Speeding (39:4-98)
- Failure to Maintain Lane (39:4-88)
- Careless Driving (39:4-97)
- Reckless Driving (39:4-98)
His vehicle was impounded, and Leon was released under John’s Law to a responsible party, who signed the required waiver.
Local Impact and Safety Reminder
The Dover Police Department emphasized its commitment to roadway safety, reminding residents of the dangers of impaired driving. “This case underscores the importance of making responsible decisions behind the wheel,” said a department representative.
Jorge Leon is scheduled to appear in municipal court at a later date. This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks and consequences associated with drinking and driving.
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.
