Southwest Pilot DUI Arrest: Soberness Test on Jet Bridge Video
Pilot Arrested for DUI After Refusing Field Sobriety Tests
A Southwest Airlines pilot was arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) after a traffic stop were he initially refused field sobriety tests. The incident led to his immediate removal from duty and subsequent termination by the airline.
The Traffic Stop and Initial Refusal
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The incident began when police pulled over David Allsop, now 53, and questioned him about recent alcohol consumption. Body camera footage revealed Allsop admitting to having ”a few beers” approximately 10 hours prior to the stop.
“Define a Few Beers?”
Officer Josiah Best pressed Allsop for clarification, asking, “Define a few beers?” Allsop initially repeated the phrase, but eventually conceded he had consumed “like three” Miller Lites.
Refusal and Observations
Officer Best requested Allsop to submit to field sobriety tests,but the pilot refused,stating,”there’s no need.” Best noted a distinct odor of alcohol emanating from Allsop. The officer also observed that Allsop removed a nicotine pouch from his mouth during the interaction. In his report, best documented additional observations: “Mr. Allsop had bloodshot,watery eyes and a flushed complexion.”
Field Sobriety Tests and Arrest
Despite his initial refusal, Allsop eventually agreed to perform field sobriety tests. According to the police report, he struggled with the tests, specifically failing to properly follow the tip of a moving pen with his eyes, moving his head and neck instead. He also swayed while attempting to stand on one leg.
Based on thes observations, Allsop was arrested and charged with DUI.
Southwest Airlines‘ Response
Following the arrest, Southwest Airlines released a statement confirming Allsop’s immediate removal from duty and subsequent termination. “He was removed from duty instantly after the alleged incident and is no longer employed by Southwest Airlines,” the statement read.
Defense Claims lack of Impairment
David Chaiken,Allsop’s defense lawyer,maintains his client’s innocence,arguing that the bodycam footage does not show evidence of impairment.
Questions About Test procedures
chaiken issued a statement asserting, “The recently released bodycam video confirms what should be obvious to anyone who watches it – Captain Allsop committed no crime.” He further claimed that experts who reviewed the video found that the field sobriety tests were not performed correctly and that proper procedures were not followed. The case is ongoing, and the legal proceedings will likely focus on the validity and interpretation of the field sobriety tests and the officer’s observations.