LAKE WORTH BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — A 35-year-old man faces multiple charges after allegedly crashing two pickup trucks, one of which was reported stolen, on August 1.
Authorities identified the driver as Cesar James after a black pickup truck crashed at 605 South Dixie Highway. Deputies reported that James was driving with a revoked license.
Initial investigations indicated a possible DUI. However, James reportedly became uncooperative, verbally assaulting Palm Beach County Fire Rescue personnel when they attempted to assist him. According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office (PBSO), he allegedly attempted to punch firefighters and used obscenities during the encounter.
Once at JFK Medical Center, James continued his aggressive behavior toward medical staff and PBSO deputies. The affidavit states he threatened an officer before being subdued and arrested.
The following day, deputies responded to another crash at the intersection of 6th Avenue S and S Dixie Highway, where they found James in a different black pickup truck that had collided with a streetlamp. PBSO confirmed that this vehicle was stolen 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, intent to threaten violence, and driving with a suspended license. The investigation is ongoing.