52-year-old David Eakes was charged with leaving the scene, DUI, and implied consent after he hit another vehicle, told the officer that he had been drinking, and said that he would fight anyone who tried to take his blood.
On October 25th, Lebanon Police Officer Affourtit responded to a hit and run call at Franklin Market in Lebanon. He was informed that the driver that caused the accident, David Eakes, had fled the scene and the person who got hit, Mitchell Knopp, was following him. The vehicle was reportedly leaving the city limits so the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office was notified. Deputy Paradise then observed David Eakes pull into 2554 Quarry Loop Road and exit his vehicle. The deputy was then met by Officer Affourtit, who he briefed about the situation.
The officer made contact with Eakes. When speaking with Eakes, the officer noticed a strong odor of alcohol coming from him as well as his red watery eyes, slurred speech, and unsteadiness on his feet. Officer Affourtit had Eakes perform a sobriety test that gave a positive indication of him being impaired. But, he was unable to perform any physical sobriety tests due to his disability and the uneven terrain, per report.
Eakes admitted to consuming a bottle of Canadian Mist whiskey, which was found empty in his vehicle. The officer also found an open beer that was partially empty in the console cupholder. When asked, Eakes stated he would not submit a blood sample and planned to fight anyone who attempted to do so.
David Eakes was charged with DUI, implied consent, and leaving the scene. He is currently jailed in lieu of a $5,000 bond.
