A Villager has lost his driver’s license following his arrest on a drunk driving charge at the assisted living facility where he resides.
William Roger Akers, 73, pleaded no contest this past week to a charge of driving under the influence in Sumter County Court. He will lose his license for six months, has been placed on probation for one year and has been ordered to perform 50 hours of community service.
Akers was found at about 2 p.m. May 12 in a red 2003 Mercedes-Benz in the parking lot of Buffalo Crossing on Woodridge Drive, according to an arrest report from the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office.
When a deputy arrived to investigate, the key was in the ignition of the Mercedes and the engine was running. The deputy noted the “strong odor” of an alcoholic beverage. Akers had slurred speech and glassy eyes.
Akers said he has a “bad hip” and cannot walk without the assistance of a walker. The deputy asked Akers to take part in field sobriety exercises, but said Akers could remain seated for the modified exercises. He performed poorly. He provided breath samples that registered .183 and .176 blood alcohol content. During an inventory of the vehicle a bottle was found and it contained scotch.