Man Claims To Be Firefighter To Avoid Arrest, Fails

Man Claims To Be Firefighter To Avoid Arrest, Fails

A West Palm Beach man was arrested early Sunday morning after he allegedly interfered with a DUI investigation and falsely claimed to be a firefighter when deputies tried to detain him. Angel Benitez was taken into custody just after midnight on April 12. Read more at BocaVibe.com.

According to Authorities, Benitez Refused to Cooperate

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies were conducting a traffic stop in the area of Federal Highway and 45th Street when they encountered Benitez. When asked to step out of his vehicle, Benitez allegedly claimed to be a firefighter with the Boca Raton Fire Department.

Deputies Suspect Benitez Was Trying to Avoid Arrest

“The suspect’s claim was immediately investigated and found to be false,” said Sheriff’s Office spokesperson, Teri Ziegler. “It appears that Mr. Benitez was attempting to avoid being taken into custody for a separate reason.”

Benitez’s Alleged Interference with DUI Investigation

Deputies stated that Benitez allegedly interfered with the investigation by refusing to provide identification and becoming belligerent when asked to step out of his vehicle. He was subsequently detained until he could be transported to the Palm Beach County Jail.

Charges Filed Against Benitez

Benitez has been charged with obstructing an officer, resisting arrest, and providing false information to law enforcement. He is currently being held on $5,000 bond at the Palm Beach County Jail.

• According to authorities, Benitez’s actions were a serious threat to public safety.
• The Boca Raton Fire Department has confirmed that Angel Benitez is not a member of their department and has no affiliation with them.

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about the incident to contact them at (561) 434-7000. The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be filed against Benitez as more information becomes available.

Official city info: City of Boca Raton.

Source: Original Report