Drunk driver becomes aggressive and attempts to take taser from a Marion deputy
By: On October 23, 2022, at approximately 4:00 a.m., Deputy Wilson observed a vehicle driving in the area of SW 484 and the Northbound on-ramp of I-75, with its hazard lights on, and both driver's side tires appearing deflated. As Deputy Wilson conducted a traffic stop, he noticed that the tires were not only deflated but that he was driving on what remained of the rim. Deputy Wilson made contact with the driver, Andres Orjuela-Montealegre, and noticed signs of impairment. When the deputy asked about the damage to the vehicle, Andres stated someone had put a curse on him and that he hit a curb a little hard. He was asked to exit the car. Andres complied, but was unsteady on his feet.
Deputy Wilson asked Andres to perform field sobriety exercises, which he initially declined, while cursing, using insults, and informing the deputy that the damage to his car was "paranormal activity.” However, Andres soon changed his mind and decided to participate in the exercises. As the deputy began giving Andres instructions, Andres told the deputy that he was going to "break [the deputy’s] head with a baseball bat" and "Skin [the deputy] alive." Andres continued making similar threats during the field sobriety exercises. Ultimately, Andres was placed under arrest.
Deputy Osborne assisted Deputy Wilson in conducting a search of Andres, at which time Andres spit in Deputy Wilson's face while continuing to spout threats and use other colorful language. As Deputy Wilson cleaned the spit from his face, Andres began grabbing Deputy Osborne's taser in an attempt to unholster it. Deputy Osborne was able to gain control of Andres and secure his taser. Andres then had to be picked up to be placed in the back of the patrol vehicle, where he kicked at and struck both deputies. Andres continued his tirade and spit all over the back of the deputy’s vehicle. After arriving at the jail, Andres refused to submit a breath test, stating to Deputy Wilson, "I got your test right here."
As a result of his actions, Andres Orjuela-Montealegre was charged with two counts of Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer, Resisting an Officer with Violence, Attempt to Deprive an Officer of Means of Protection or Communication, Corrupt by Threat against Public Servant, and Driving Under the Influence. He now faces up to 25.5 years of imprisonment and is being held on a $27,000 bond.