Man Jumped Into Lake To Avoid Drunk Driving Arrest: Report

RACINE, WI — Authorities in Racine County say a 38-year-old Racine Man jumped into Lake Michigan in order to avoid a drunk driving arrest after he hit a car occupied by two security guards.

According to a criminal complaint filed in Racine County, two security guards were patrolling Racine's east side in a Metro Public Safety car on the night of Aug. 9 when they saw a gray Cadillac run a red light at the intersection of Fourth Street and Lake Ave.

The security guards told investigators they went on to patrol the area of the Reefpoint Brewhouse located just to the east on the campus of Reefpoint Marina in Racine's harbor. The security guards said they parked their car near the Brew House, only to have the same gray Cadillac back out of a parking space, and right into their vehicle.

According to the criminal complaint, the security guards attempted to confront the driver of the Cadillac, later identified as Cesar Angeles, and noticed he smelled of alcohol and was swaying from side-to-side on his feet. The security guards radioed for help, but before Sheriff's deputies could arrive, Angeles ran down the causeway of the marina and jumped into the water

Sheriff’s Deputies from the Water Safety Patrol arrived and began searching for Angeles. A deputy who responded to the scene spotted Angeles as he clung to the swim platform of a boat docked in Slip 33. That's where he was arrested, police said.

According to Sheriff's reports, Angeles refused to perform field sobriety tests and was arrested on suspicion of drunken driving and resisting an officer. He was later charged with his fifth drunken driving offense.

He's due back in court on Monday for his initial appearance.