Colorado man allegedly tries avoiding DUI by switching seats with dog

A police car.
(Image credit: Stock Photo via Getty Images)

A Colorado man is facing a rough situation after allegedly trying to avoid a DUI by swapping seats with his dog during a traffic stop, police said.

The incident occurred in Springfield this past Saturday, a small town that USA Today reported has just 1,300 people. The unidentified man was pulled over around 11:30 p.m. for allegedly driving 52 mph in a 30 mph zone, police said in a post on Facebook. At this point, the driver "attempted to switch places with his dog who was in the passenger seat," all while the police officer "approached and watched the entire process," the post said. The driver "then exited the passenger side of the vehicle and claimed he was not driving."

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The suspect, who police said had two arrest warrants in nearby Pueblo, told law enforcement he had gotten lost in Springfield while driving through neighboring towns. He was cleared at a nearby hospital and then booked into jail on his warrants. He was additionally handed a slew of other charges, including driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, driving while ability impaired, driving under suspension, speeding 20-24 mph over the limit, and resisting arrest, police said.

As for the dog, it was handed over to one of the driver's friends while its owner remains in jail. Thankfully, the four-legged occupant of the car won't be spending any time behind bars.

"The dog does not face any charges and was let go with just a warning," police said.

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Justin Klawans, The Week US

Justin Klawans has worked as a staff writer at The Week since 2022. He began his career covering local news before joining Newsweek as a breaking news reporter, where he wrote about politics, national and global affairs, business, crime, sports, film, television and other news. Justin has also freelanced for outlets including Collider and United Press International.