OVI checkpoint crash a reminder not to drive impaired

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — A recent close call has the Franklin County Sheriff's Office once again reminding community members not to drink or be under the influence of drugs while driving.

"This is a classic example of why we’re out there," Franklin County Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Jim Gilbert said.

FCSO regularly sets up OVI checkpoints around the county. Last Friday, such a checkpoint was set up on Columbus’ south side on South High Street near Dolby Drive. A driver quickly drove through the checkpoint, past deputies, over cones, and into a portable light. They then continued to drive. Some of the situation was caught on FCSO body and dash cameras.

“This is a classic case of somebody who has no regard for their own safety; they're behind the wheel, if they’re willing to potentially strike all of these cones and/or our deputies in the roadway, they’re willing to injure anybody else out there," Gilbert said.

Deputies began pursuing the driver, who ended up crashing into another car about two miles down the road. Video from FCSO showed the driver getting out of his car and running away. Gilbert said the 29-year-old man was arrested about 45 minutes later.

“He admitted to our investigators that he was high and/or drinking throughout the day and that he was operating his vehicle while impaired," Gilbert said.

A gun was also allegedly found in the driver's car, according to Gilbert. He's facing a total of six charges, including OVI.

“Conversation I had with Sheriff Baldwin, when he reviewed the videos, we’re very fortunate and lucky we’re not here talking about the death of a couple deputies because of this person's actions, getting behind the wheel while impaired," Gilbert said.