Florida Man Screams at Deputies, Kicks Patrol Car Windows After DUI Accusation – Video Inside Vehicle

That video of the Florida man screaming and kicking the patrol car windows after his DUI arrest isn’t just another viral clip—it’s a stark reminder of how quickly a routine traffic stop can escalate, especially when impairment is involved. Seeing those images from inside the cruiser, where Deputy Wilkinson had to deal with David Stewart’s tantrum after refusing multiple commands to move forward, hits close to home for anyone who’s navigated the late-night streets of downtown St. Augustine after leaving a bar or restaurant along St. George Street. The incident, which unfolded on April 16th near the historic district, underscores a growing concern for local law enforcement and residents alike: the dangerous mix of alcohol impairment and non-compliance during police interactions.

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office reported that Deputy Wilkinson detected a strong odor of alcohol, slurred speech, and watery eyes during the stop, leading to Stewart’s arrest for DUI and resisting law enforcement without violence. What makes this case particularly relevant to our community is how it highlights the challenges deputies face when dealing with individuals who may not fully grasp the severity of their situation due to intoxication. Stewart’s behavior—questioning if he was “allowed to dig,” producing an envelope labeled “Title” instead of registration, and telling the deputy the camera was on his “f***ing ass”—demonstrates the confusion and belligerence that can accompany high blood alcohol levels, which in this case measured 0.170 and 0.169 BAC at the detention facility.

This incident ties into broader trends we’ve seen across Northeast Florida, where DUI arrests often spike during tourist seasons and holiday weekends. The St. Augustine Police Department and St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office have both reported increased patrols along major corridors like US-1 and SR-A1A during peak times, particularly around events at the Amphitheatre or concerts at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. What’s concerning is how these stops sometimes escalate beyond the initial violation, as seen when Stewart’s resistance led to an upgraded response with lights and sirens to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility—a procedure Deputy Wilkinson noted was “extremely uncommon” and reserved for genuine safety concerns.

Looking at the data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, St. Johns County consistently ranks among the top counties in the state for DUI-related incidents per capita, especially during the spring break and summer months. The local impact extends beyond the immediate legal consequences; there are real socioeconomic effects when residents face license suspensions, increased insurance premiums, or job complications stemming from DUI charges. For businesses in the historic district, particularly those along Cordova Street or Aviles Street that rely on evening trade, there’s a delicate balance between promoting hospitality and ensuring patron safety—a challenge that’s prompted some establishments to partner with ride-sharing services or offer designated driver programs.

Given my background in analyzing public safety trends and community resilience, if this pattern of impaired driving incidents affects you or someone you know in the St. Augustine area, here are three types of local professionals Try to consider connecting with:

First, seek out DUI defense attorneys familiar with St. Johns County courts who understand the nuances of Florida’s implied consent laws and can scrutinize everything from the initial traffic stop’s validity to the administration of field sobriety tests and breathalyzer equipment—look for lawyers who are members of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and have specific experience handling cases before Judge R. Lee Smith or Judge Howard Maltz in the Seventh Judicial Circuit.

Second, consider consulting with licensed substance abuse counselors specializing in traffic offender programs who are certified by the Florida Certification Board and familiar with the state’s DUI School requirements—these professionals can help address underlying patterns of behavior whereas fulfilling court-mandated obligations, often working in collaboration with the St. Johns County Clerk of Courts’ diversion programs.

Third, engage with local driver’s license restoration specialists who know the exact procedures for navigating the Florida DHSMV’s administrative review process—these experts, often former hearing officers or administrative law specialists, understand the specific documentation needed for hardship license appeals and can guide you through the mandatory DUI Advanced School and potential ignition interlock requirements.

Ready to find trusted professionals? Browse our complete directory of top-rated dui defense attorneys experts in the st augustine area today.