A 30-year veteran of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO), Major Sean Murray, was arrested Tuesday night after being pulled over in St. Augustine while driving a PBSO-issued cruiser.
Traffic Stop & Arrest
Just before midnight, a St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office (SJCSO) deputy noticed a silver Ford Expedition swerving on the road west of St. Augustine. The SUV was:
Drifting within lanes and crossing dividers
Driving in the middle of the road
Speeding at 71 mph in a 55-mph zone
When the deputy ran the vehicle’s license plate, it was not on file in law enforcement databases. However, a tow receipt later confirmed that the SUV belonged to PBSO.
After making a U-turn at State Road 16 and Old Town Parkway, the SUV was pulled over, and the deputy detected an overwhelming odor of alcohol coming from the vehicle.
Failed Sobriety Test & DUI Charge
According to the probable cause affidavit, Murray showed bloodshot, watery eyes and had difficulty walking after stepping out of the vehicle.
Although he refused to participate in standard roadside sobriety exercises, he admitted to having consumed alcohol at dinner. He did agree to a Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test—and failed.
Murray was booked into St. Johns County Jail for DUI.
Background & PBSO Response
Murray serves as:
Commanding Officer for PBSO’s Emergency Operations Bureau
Law Enforcement Chairman for the Regional Domestic Security Task Force
Following his arrest, PBSO placed him on administrative leave with pay while the investigation continues.
