On June 29, 2017 at approximately 11:40 p.m. a Sonoma Police deputy saw a car run the stop sign at the intersection of Arnold and Fremont Drives at approximately 40 m.p.h. The deputy began to follow the driver, who continued northbound on Arnold Drive and passed another vehicle over the double yellow lines. The deputy turned on the lights and sirens to stop the driver. The driver, later identified as Pablo Soto-Chavira, 25, of Santa Rosa, did not pull over. He continued driving at speeds up to approximately 70 m.p.h. for approximately 1.5 miles while the deputy pursued him.
Soto-Chavira eventually pulled over on Arnold Drive just north of Watmaugh Road. The deputy approached the car and another deputy arrived to assist. Soto-Chavira refused multiple requests to completely roll down the window and unlock the car doors, and repeatedly dropped his hand out of view towards his side and rear waistband. Both deputies kept Soto-Chavira at gunpoint because he was refusing orders and repeatedly reached for his waistband where weapons are often located. He also appeared to be intoxicated.
After giving a warning, a deputy broke the driver side window, opened the door, grabbed Soto-Chavira, and told him to get out of the car. Soto-Chavira refused and repeatedly pulled away. Both deputies pulled him from the car and placed him on the ground. He continued to physically resist, but two more deputies arrived and helped handcuff him. Soto-Chavira had a cut on his face, which medical personnel treated on scene once he was handcuffed. Deputies found open empty beer containers in the car.
Soto-Chavira refused a breath test for alcohol, so deputies obtained a warrant and transported him to the hospital for a blood draw. He continued to physically resist during the blood draw and while deputies tried to put him back in the patrol car. Deputies again placed him on the ground and he began hitting his head on the ground. They placed him in maximum restraints to prevent him from injuring himself and the deputies. He was then transported him to jail.
Soto-Chavira was arrested and booked into the Sonoma County Jail for driving under the influence, reckless driving, and resisting arrest. He was released on $10,000 bail on June 30, 2017.
Prepared by: Misti Harris, Community Engagement Liaison
CR: 170629-033
Media Inquiries: 707-565-3941
