Uber driver facing multiple charges after allegedly driving erratically on Route 24

An Uber driver who was transporting customers has been arrested on multiple charges after reportedly driving erratically on Route 24.

According to Tiverton Police, on Saturday at approximately 3:09 a.m., Officer Nicholas Jamrog was on a traffic post on Route 24. At that time, he observed a 2011 Buick Enclave traveling northbound with only one functional headlight. Officer Jamrog began to follow the vehicle and observed it erratically apply its breaks and leave its lane of travel crossing over the line dividing the high and low-speed lanes. The vehicle took the Fish Road exit and began traveling north on Fish Road, Officer Jamrog initiated a motor vehicle stop.

Officer Jamrog approached the vehicle and observed two passengers and a male operator, later identified as 41-year-old Carlos Cordova. Cordova reported that he was an Uber driver and was currently transporting the two passengers. While speaking with Cordova, Officer Jamrog detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage and observed other signs of intoxication. Officer Jamrog requested that Cordova consent to Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. Cardova agreed and voluntarily exited his vehicle. While doing so, Cordova stumbled, requiring officers to assist him. Cordova subsequently performed poorly on the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. Officer Jamrog requested that Cordova submit to a Preliminary Breath Test, to which he agreed. Cordova provided a breath sample, which yielded a Blood Alcohol Content of .228%. Officers determined, due to the totality of the circumstances, that Cordova was unfit to operate a motor vehicle safely. Cordova was placed under arrest for suspicion of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor/drugs.

Cordova is also facing Laned Roadway Violations and Head Lamps on Vehicles violation for the non-functional headlight.

Officers spoke with the male and female passengers, who expressed their gratitude for officers stopping Cordova. Both passengers were transported by officers to their residence.

Cordova was transported to Tiverton Police Headquarters. Upon arrival, Cordova refused to submit to a chemical test. Officers completed the booking process and Cordova was held at Headquarters until 9:00 a.m.

Cordova was arraigned by a bail commissioner and released on $1,000 surety bail. Cordova is scheduled to appear in Newport District Court on Thursday.