By Belize Live News Staff: A late night patrol in Orange Walk Town ended with a taxi driver in court and his car impounded.
Officers say they spotted a white Toyota Corolla weaving across Savannah Street on Thursday night and pulled in behind it. The driver stepped out unsteadily, leaving the engine and lights on, and officers reported a strong smell of alcohol.
The driver presented a valid licence but was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
At the station, police say he repeatedly refused to give a urine sample, despite being warned that refusing is itself an offence. He refused again at the Northern Regional Hospital when offered a urine or blood test in front of a doctor.
On Friday, Jaime Gomez, 51, a taxi driver of Savannah Street, was formally charged with failing to provide a specimen. He chose to remain silent.
He is due in court on Monday.
Police are reminding drivers that refusing to provide a specimen when lawfully requested is a criminal offence, and that driving under the influence puts lives at risk.
