Orlando Man Found Guilty After Fleeing DUI Crash Trial – WFTV

In Polk County, FL, an Orlando man who escaped the county over 15 years ago to evade a trial for drunk driving and causing an accident leading to grave injuries of two individuals, is finally set to be penalized. The incident took place on May 20, 2006, on Interstate 4 in Polk County. FHP’s investigation discovered that the Jaguar, traveling eastbound on I-4, failed to stick to a single lane.

When Florida Highway Patrol responded, they discovered a white 2006 Jaguar divided in half on the roadside and an overturned orange Honda Element. The Jaguar was driven by 27-year-old Faisal Javaid of Orlando, who lost control and crashed into the Honda when he overcorrected. The collision split the Jaguar in half and left the Honda upside down.

Javaid, who was ejected from his vehicle, received medical attention from Polk County EMS. The people in the Honda were hospitalized and treated for their severe injuries. During the investigation, troopers noticed potential signs of impairment in Javaid and drew his blood, revealing a blood alcohol content level far above the legal limit.

In 2008, charges were filed against Javaid who then fled to Pakistan and Kenya. However, in May 2023, the State Attorney’s Office informed the original investigators that Javaid had been arrested upon his return to the U.S.. Finally, on April 5, a Polk County jury found Javaid guilty of two counts of DUI with serious bodily injury, almost 18 years after the incident. Now 45, Javaid faces up to 10 years in state prison, with sentencing scheduled for May 15.

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