Grand Forks County (trfnews.i234.me) — A Grand Forks man faces one felony and five misdemeanor charges after police say he drove drunk, hit another vehicle, fled the scene, and refused a chemical test late Friday night.
According to court records, William Joseph King, 35, was arrested at about 11:29 p.m. near 40th Avenue South and Cottonwood Street. A declaration of probable cause was filed on April 13 in Grand Forks County District Court.
What Police Say Happened
Police say King was driving a black 2009 Ford Edge east on 40th Avenue South. The vehicle was clocked at 48 mph in a 25 mph zone.
Investigators say King then turned off his headlights. He also drove through the four-way stop at 40th Avenue South and Cherry Street without slowing down.
Police activated emergency lights and followed the SUV. The vehicle later stopped in the 4100 block of Cottonwood Street.
When officers approached, they reported signs of impairment. Court documents describe slurred speech, watery eyes, and an unsteady walk. Officers also reported smelling alcohol. They said an electronic duster canister was on the driver’s floorboard.
Crash Victim and Passenger Statements
While officers were at the stop, another driver arrived and said King had struck her vehicle and left. She showed police a photo of King’s SUV. Officers reported paint transfer on both vehicles. A crash report was then started.
King’s passenger also gave a statement to police. He said King picked him up from Altru Hospital. He told officers King did not seem fit to drive. He also said he feared someone could get hurt.
The passenger said the duster canister had been full earlier. He said it was empty when he got it back at the scene.
Arrest and Refusal
Police say King refused field sobriety testing. He was then arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
After officers read North Dakota’s implied consent advisory, King refused a chemical test, according to court documents. More information on that law is available through the North Dakota Century Code.
Authorities say King was booked into the Grand Forks County Correctional Center. Court records also allege he later assaulted a cellmate while in custody.
Charges Filed
- Reckless endangerment, extreme indifference, a Class C felony
- Criminal mischief, a Class A misdemeanor
- Leaving the scene of an accident is a Class B misdemeanor
- DUI, alcohol and drugs, first offense, a Class B misdemeanor
- DUI refusal, first offense, a Class B misdemeanor
- Inhalation of vapors is a Class B misdemeanor
King made his initial appearance this afternoon in Grand Forks County District Court.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.