Mugshot of David Motta. Photo Credit: THE VIRGIN ISLANDS POLICE DEPARTMENT
ST. CROIX — A man appeared before a V.I. Superior Court judge on Friday to face charges following a vehicular accident.
David Motta was arrested and charged on Tuesday with driving under the influence of an intoxicating liquor, and negligent driving following a report of an auto collision in Peter's Rest.
According to the probable cause fact sheet, while on route to the scene of the collision, officers were notified that the incident had turned into a possible disturbance and that the driver and passenger of the vehicle which caused the collision were leaving the area on foot.
When police arrived at the scene, the individuals were detained by a supporting unit. Contact was made with the supporting officer, who stated that David Motta, who identified himself as the driver of a silver Toyota Camry, along with his girlfriend, were sitting in the back of his patrol unit. The individuals were asked if they needed medical attention but they declined.
While at the scene, police observed the silver Camry with severe damage facing east on the southern shoulder of the roadway. There was also an overturned black Suzuki Vitara in the yard.The Vitara had impacted and damaged a black Chevrolet Suburban which was parked in the yard. About 57 feet of a chain linked wire fence which surrounded the property was also damaged. Neighbors informed police that the owner of the property was off island.
The scene was processed, and shortly after, Motta and his girlfriend were transported to a safe zone at the Ancilmo Marshall Command Police Station where Motta was advised of his Miranda warning.
Motta stated that he was driving from east to west on Peter's Rest Road when his tire blew out and he lost control of his vehicle, hitting the parked Chevrolet. While interviewing Motta, his eyes were red and watery, and a strong odor of what appeared to be an alcoholic beverage was coming from his person and breath. Motta was staggering while walking, so police asked him if he had consumed any alcoholic beverages. He stated that he had four Milwaukee beers. Motta was also asked about his driving speed and he said that he was traveling about 35 mph.
Motta was advised that the standardized field sobriety test would be administered.
Police demonstrated and administered the first test — the horizontal nystagmus gaze test. Motta had a lack of smooth pursuit in both eyes and kept turning his head repeatedly to follow the stimulus (a pen). He was unable to maintain his balance during the instructional phase of the walk and turn test and made mention of having a knee injury. He said he could not perform the walk and turn test or the one leg stand test. Motta was asked to submit to the chemical test of his breath but refused to affix his signature to the consent form.
Motta was then placed under arrest.
In court on Friday, a judge ruled that Motta would be released pending trial if he could pay 10 percent of his $1,000 bail. He is to have no unlawful contact with the complainant or any witnesses in the matter.
