Lady Lake police arrested a man late Wednesday night after he was seen driving into oncoming traffic on U.S. Highway 27/441.
Just before 11:30 p.m. on Nov. 12, officers responded to reports of a reckless driver near County Road 25 and Griffin Avenue. Callers reported a red Ford passenger car swerving, crossing lanes and nearly striking other vehicles.
Office Amanda Hayes soon saw the car turn onto U.S. Highway 27/441, driving south in the northbound lanes as other drivers swerved to avoid a collision. Officers Hayes and Officer Josh Higgins blocked traffic and brought the vehicle to a stop near Water Oak Boulevard.
The driver, identified as Christopher P. Johnson, 44, of Wildwood, showed signs of heavy impairment and could not stand on his own. Officers observed open containers of alcohol inside the vehicle. Johnson was unable to stand without assistance and gave breath samples of 0.245 and 0.236, nearly three times the legal limit.
Johnson admitted to drinking earlier in the night. Officers learned he had prior convictions for driving under the influence and suspended license.
He was arrested and taken to the Lake County Jail and the car was towed from the scene.
“Our officers acted quickly and decisively to stop this vehicle before someone was seriously hurt,” Chief Steve Hunt said. “Driving into oncoming traffic is extremely dangerous, and their fast response prevented what could have been a tragic outcome for innocent drivers.”