Bicyclist suspected of DUI overturns in oncoming traffic

A homeless man in Leesburg was arrested for DUI after riding a bicycle into oncoming traffic and admitting to drinking two beers.

An officer observed 36-year-old Roberto Ernesto Sanchez riding a bicycle without a headlight or taillight against incoming traffic on West Dixie Avenue around 10:52 p.m. Thursday, according to an arrest report from the Leesburg Police Department. 

Sanchez appeared unsteady and veered further into the travel lane. He then overturned and fell to the ground in the middle of the westbound outside travel lane. The officer immediately turned on his emergency lights and approached Sanchez due to the bicycle violations and to check his well-being, the report said. 

Upon making contact with Sanchez, the officer noticed the distinct odor of alcoholic drinks coming from his person. His eyes were also glassy and watery. He then admitted to having two beers earlier that evening, the report said. 

The officer subsequently conducted a DUI investigation. Sanchez’ performance during field sobriety exercises, most of which he refused to do but during one he stated he was intoxicated, led the officer to conclude he was under the influence. Sanchez later refused to submit to a breath test, the report said. 

Additionally, Sanchez stated the officers “got him” over the course of the investigation, the report said. 

Sanchez was ultimately arrested on charge of DUI. He was transported to Lake County Jail and released after posting $1,000 bond.