City man adds to litany of driving offenses after latest alleged DUI, hit-and-run
WOONSOCKET — A city man is facing a half-dozen charges after he fled the scene of back-to-back motor vehicle accidents while driving under the influence, police say.
Shane Clinton,
50, of 77
Adams St., was arrested near the scene of the last crash, in front of 349 South Main St., about 10 p.m. Monday. Moments earlier, police said, he’d struck another car parked near 273 South Main St. Clinton was charged with driving under the influence, with an unknown BAC, refusal to submit to a chemical test and two counts of leaving the scene of an accident involving an unattended vehicle.
Additionally, Clinton, who’s been previously charged with driving on a suspended license nine times since 1991, according to court records, was charged with a new count of that offense. Police said there was an active Third District Court bench warrant for Clinton’s arrest for driving on a suspended license at the time of his arrest.
Clinton also has a record of various motor vehicle infractions in the Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal, including operating without proof of insurance; improper use of a registration; operating without an inspection sticker; plus various moving violations.
Police said Clinton’s speech was slurred and he was “very unsteady on his feet” when they responded to a report of a driver who was attempting to flee the scene of an accident Monday.
“I’m drunk,” Clinton allegedly volunteered as officers approached. Several times, Clinton told the officers, “I love you guys.”
Clinton admitted that he’d been drinking at the Doll House on Front Street before he got in his car, but he refused to submit to a breath alcohol test, police said.
Neither of the owners of the vehicles Clinton allegedly struck was inside his or her vehicle at the time of the crash, but the owner of one told police he heard a loud crash and observed Clinton’s silver Honda moving in reverse. On foot, the owner of the vehicle chased after the Honda, limping away with heavy front end damage and a broken axle.
Clinton apparently made it to nearby Mason Street, at which point his vehicle became inoperable due to the extent of the damage.
Clinton was released on personal recognizance after a preliminary appearance in Sixth District Court on Tuesday. He’s due back in court for another hearing on Nov. 18, according to the judiciary’s web site.