LAKE WORTH BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — A man faces multiple charges after allegedly crashing stolen pickup trucks and assaulting firefighters, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office.
On August 1 at 2:41 p.m., deputies responded to a crash involving a black pickup truck at 605 South Dixie Highway. The driver, identified as Cesar James, 35, was found to be operating the vehicle with a revoked license.
Initially suspected of DUI, James became aggressive, allegedly assaulting Palm Beach County Fire Rescue personnel when they attempted to provide aid. He reportedly threatened firefighters and attempted to strike them while making verbal threats.
Once admitted to JFK Medical Center, James continued his outburst, reportedly threatening PBSO deputies and attempting to assault an officer before being subdued and arrested.
The following day, PBSO responded to another crash at the intersection of 6th Avenue S and South Dixie Highway, where a second black pickup truck was found crashed into a streetlamp. James was identified as the driver and was discovered to have stolen the vehicle from a Boynton Beach residence.
James has been charged with grand theft of a motor vehicle, battery on a firefighter, corruptly threatening a public servant, and multiple driving offenses. He is currently in custody as the investigation continues.