EPD says drunk man arrested after leaving liquor store, hitting patrol car

HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) – An Evansville man is behind bars after police say he was left a liquor store already drunk and also hit a patrol car.

According to an affidavit, at 1:17 p.m. on Saturday, officers were dispatched to the 110 block of N. Cross Pointe Blvd. for a man, identified as Steven Espinoza, that was reportedly highly intoxicated and leaving a liquor store.

Officers were able to catch up to Espinoza after he passed them. Officers were advised he was driving a white Jeep heading towards Virginia Street.

Police say they followed the Jeep before it turned into Brooklyn Place Apartments and initiating a traffic stop.

Police also say Espinoza pulled into a parking place until it hit the front curb, then accelerated forward until the Jeep jumped the curb before reversing into a patrol vehicle.

EPD says the officers used emergency lights, verbal commands and honked their horn to try and get him to stop.

Espinoza allegedly then put his vehicle in drive and tried to drive away.

Espinoza allegedly did finally stop and was removed to be placed into custody but allegedly resisted.

He also allegedly declined any sobriety tests but reportedly agreed to a chemical test.

He is facing Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated and Resisting Law Enforcement charges.

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