An Orlando police sergeant who was picking up his daughter from school was arrested for allegedly driving under the influence after he failed field sobriety exercises and blew twice the legal blood alcohol limit.
On Tuesday, February 28, Seminole County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the Choices in Learning Elementary Charter School in Winter Springs in reference to a parent who was impaired. School staff reported that the parent, identified as 42-year-old Anthony Lappas, was attempting to pickup his daughter, but seemed as though he was under the influence.
Upon arrival, deputies were informed by the school’s resource officer and staff that Lappas had parked in the school’s through lane and blocked other vehicles. When school employees made contact with Lappas, they noted concerns that he was “under the influence” and “should not pick up his child in his current condition,” according to the police report.
Staff noted that Lappas was unsteady on his feat, leaned against a pole to steady himself, and had bloodshot eyes.
According to multiple witnesses, Lappas attempted to move his vehicle from the through lane and park in a nearby space. Witnesses say Lappas circled the parking lot and pulled into a parking space, violently striking a “concrete parking stop block” with his pickup truck.
Deputies made contact with Lappas, who is a sergeant for the Orlando Police Department, and noted that he smelled of alcohol, had bloodshot eyes, and was lethargic, speaking with slurred speech.
Lappas agreed to field sobriety exercises, which he failed. He was transported to the John E. Polk Correctional Facility, where he provided breath samples of .158 and .165 B.A.C. He is being charged with driving under the influence of alcohol.
According to the Orlando Police Department, Lappas has been placed on paid administrative leave and relieved of his law enforcement duties while the incident is investigated.