Dalton man arrested for DUI after driving reckless on the North Bypass in Whitfield County

According to a Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office incident report, On January 1st, 2023, at 2:36 AM, Deputy Figg was north on GA-3 approaching the traffic light at Underwood Street when he observed two vehicles turn left onto GA-3 from Underwood Street. According to the report, Deputy Figg observed the 2nd vehicle, a 2016 Volkswagen Jetta, quickly pass the lead vehicle taking off at a very high rate of speed, northbound. Deputy Figg’s traffic light turned green, and Deputy Figg attempted to catch up with the vehicle. As Deputy Figg attempted to catch up with the vehicle, he continued to check his speed. Deputy Figg sped up to 80 MPH but was unable to catch up with the vehicle as it continued to pull away from Deputy Figg. Deputy Figg sped up to 90 MPH and was able to gain slightly on the vehicle. The vehicle slowed to 87 MPH as they were approaching the traffic light for Pleasant Grove. Deputy Figg matched the speed of the vehicle at 87 MPH in a posted 55 MPH Zone. The vehicle then began to speed up, at which time Deputy Figg activated his Blue Lights.” The vehicle slowed but did not pull over until just past Vista Drive. Deputy Figg made contact with the driver, identified as Jose Ramon Alvarado, 21, of Dalton. Deputy Figg took Jose into custody for reckless driving. According to the report, As Deputy Figg was taking Jose into custody, he could smell an odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his breath.” During the field sobriety test of Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus, Jose showed several signs of impairment. Jose was placed under arrest for DUI and refused all state tests. Deputy Figg then observed an open can of beer in the consul next to the driver’s seat. As Deputy Figg began to speak with the passenger, Steven Gage Hightower, 17, he could smell a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his breath. Deputy Figg asked Steven if he had been drinking. At first, Steven stated he had not been drinking but finally admitted he had been drinking when questioned further. Steven was then taken into custody for underage consumption. Steven registered a .05 on a PBT. Jose and Steven were transported to the Whitfield County Jail Jose was charged with speeding, reckless driving, DUI less safe, and possession of open alcohol while operating a motor vehicle.