A woman standing in front of a police car.
A seemingly ordinary morning at a McDonald’s in Lake County, Florida took an unexpected turn for 30-year-old Courtney Moore. After allegedly hitting another vehicle, Moore found herself at the center of a DUI investigation that escalated quickly.
The incident unfolded as Moore’s vehicle reportedly collided with another car after being stopped at a traffic light for multiple cycles. While the damage was estimated at $1,500, the encounter with law enforcement officers revealed more than just a fender bender.
Body camera footage showed the responding officer initially issuing Moore a citation for careless driving. However, her demeanor, described as “slow and lethargic,” raised concerns. Despite Moore attributing her state to fatigue from caring for a young child and recovering from a fall, the officer proceeded with a DUI investigation.
A police officer talking to a woman in a parking lot.
The investigation involved a series of field sobriety tests, including a walk-and-turn test and a finger-to-nose test. Moore’s performance raised further red flags for the officers.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Moore admitted to taking prescription medication for pain but claimed not to have consumed any alcohol. She explained that she carries her medication in her bra due to previous thefts from her vehicle.
As the investigation progressed, a female officer arrived to conduct a search of Moore. Throughout the interaction, Moore displayed visible frustration and distress.
A police officer searching a woman in a parking lot.
Moore was subsequently arrested and transported to the Lake County Jail. Despite reportedly passing a breathalyzer test, her refusal to submit to further testing resulted in a DUI charge.
During her transport, the rear seat camera captured Moore’s continued exhaustion and apparent confusion. She repeatedly questioned the situation and maintained her sobriety, attributing her behavior to sleep deprivation and the demands of caring for her young child.
Moore pleaded not guilty to the DUI charge and was released on bond. The case is ongoing, and she is expected back in court this summer.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding DUI investigations. It highlights the importance of responsible medication use, particularly when operating a motor vehicle, and the potential consequences of refusing further testing during a DUI stop.
