A 48-year-old Big Coppitt Key man was arrested Thursday after fleeing from a deputy attempting to make a traffic stop.
Daryl Royal Riedel was charged with fleeing and eluding, DUI/fourth or subsequent offense, driving with suspended license/third or subsequent offense, reckless driving and failure to submit to breath test with a suspended license.
Deputy Anthony Lopez was on patrol about 5:45 p.m. on U.S.1 near Mile Marker 7 when he saw Riedel driving a pickup truck. Deputy Lopez knew what Riedel has a suspended license. Deputy Lopez made a traffic stop. When Deputy Lopez exited his patrol vehicle, Riedel drove off in the pickup truck. Deputy Lopez got back in his patrol car and followed him with his lights and sirens activated. Riedel refused to stop as he traveled northbound on U.S. 1. Riedel turned right on Boca Chica Road. Riedel passed another vehicle in a no-passing zone. Deputy Lopez used his patrol car PA system to order Riedel to stop. Riedel waved his left hand out of the open window, “as if to disregard my order,” Deputy Lopez reported.
Riedel turned left on Geiger Road. Riedel then turned left on Cormorant Lane, finally stopping at 11 Cormorant Lane. Deputy Lopez exited his patrol car. Riedel exited the pickup truck while holding a can of beer. Riedel proceeded to chug the can of beer in Deputy Lopez’s presence. Riedel stated he fled because he was scared.
Riedel was taken to jail.