Police: White Lake Man Drives Into Tree, Registers .44 Blood Alcohol Level

A 54-year-old White Lake resident was arrested on charges of operating while under the influence of alcohol on Monday, third offense, and driving with a suspended license after White Lake Police say he got into his car after drinking and crashed into a tree.

According to the report, police were called to an accident Saturday, Nov. 3, at 8 p.m. near Ormond Road and Jackson Boulevard.

When they arrived, the report states, officers found a truck crashed into a tree. The driver's foot was still on the gas pedal. The report states the engine was red-lining and the tires were burning as the the driver's foot continued to press down on the gas pedal.

Lt. Don Nankervis said the doors to the truck were locked, and that the driver appeared to be passed out. Officers had to break a window to get into the car, turn it off and extricate the driver.

Once out of the car, the report states, the man was questioned. During questioning he told police, according to the report, that he had been drinking.

The man was given a preliminary breath test on scene and registered a .44 blood alcohol level, the legal limit is .08.

The man was taken to Huron Valley Hospital to get his blood drawn, and was then lodged in Oakland County Jail. He was arraigned Monday and bond was set at $25,000 cash. The man remains in jail, and faces 1-5 years in jail if convicted.

For questions about this crime report, email brooke.meier@patch.com.