A Stafford and Woodbridge man face multiple charges after a single vehicle auto accident.

On September 4th, at approximately 1:40 a.m. Deputy K.L. Steffenhagen, Deputy R.T. Phillipsen, and Deputy C.C. Crossett responded to an auto accident at Courthouse Road and Hospital Center Boulevard. The vehicle, instead of turning right or left, continued straight and collided with a utility pole. When deputies arrived, multiple empty beer bottles were located in plain view within the vehicle.

Deputy Crossett observed a heavily intoxicated male walking away from the vehicle. The individual, later identified as Jacson Espinal-Venegas, 20, had injuries consistent with being hit by an airbag. Deputy Crossett tried to get Venegas to stay on scene; however, Venegas had other plans and attempted to leave multiple times. Venegas had the strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his breath and refused to comply with commands. That ended when Venegas was detained.

A large group nearby advised the driver and passenger were at a party with them. The driver was identified as Jose Ventura Galo, 24, and Venegas was determined to be the passenger. A member of the party advised Galo not to drive because Galo had too much to drink. Galo did not listen which resulted in him crashing his vehicle. Deputies made contact with Galo who advised the accident happened due to him losing control of the vehicle.

It was evident Galo was under the influence due to him having glassy bloodshot eyes and he admitted to consuming alcohol. He was charged with driving under the influence second offense within five years, reckless driving, and refusal. Venegas was charged with public intoxication and obstruction of justice. Venegas was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail until sober; whereas, Galo was held without bond.

The moral of the story being, listen to your friends and do not drink and drive.