FHP: Alcohol Found in JSO Officer’s Car at Crash Scene | News

By Jackelyn Barnard

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The officer at fault in a crash in St. Johns County had been drinking, investigators believe.

The Florida Highway Patrol said beer was found in JSO Officer Michael Rolison’s car and that open containers were found outside the officer’s cruiser.

“There was evidence of alcohol in the vehicle because there was spillage on the floorboard and in talking to the driver he did have alcohol on his breath,” said FHP Lt. Bill Leeper.

According to the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, Rolison was on his way home from work in his JSO vehicle at about 2 a.m. He was still in uniform.

The FHP reports that Rolison was westbound on Greenbriar Road when he drifted into the eastbound lane.

Rolison and an 18-year-old driver heading the other way collided head-on.  Both drivers were taken to Baptist South for treatment of minor injuries.  Both have been released.

The FHP said charges are pending further investigation.

JSO confirmed it is now investigating and no other comment will be made until that investigation is complete.

Rolison has been in four other accidents since being hired by JSO in 1999.

In December 2001, he received formal counseling for an accident.  In August 2004, he was written up for a crash. The other two, were just noted.

Rolison was written up in October 2001, for unbecoming conduct on the job. Two months ago he received another written reprimand for the improper use of his patrol car.

And a year ago, Rolison was suspended five days for violating JSO's drug policy along with another charge of the commission of conduct supporting criminal acts.

It's unclear exactly what that charge involved. 

JSO said Rolison’s employment status depends on a medical examination.

ORIGINAL STORY: JSO Officer Ruled At Fault in Overnight Crash