A routine traffic stop quickly escalated into a tense confrontation after Los Angeles officers pulled over a woman identified as Sienna for running a red light at a busy intersection. Body camera footage reveals the encounter beginning with immediate suspicion from the officers, who noticed the woman tossing items onto the floorboard as they approached. When questioned, she insisted she was only reaching for her bag and driver’s license.
Officers stated that she drove through a red light at Orange and Washington, a violation she explained by saying she was running late from her work break. However, the situation intensified when officers ordered her to put the car in park and step out. They reported that she “reeked of alcohol,” prompting concerns of impaired driving.
When officers attempted to detain her, Sienna repeatedly protested, insisting she had not been drinking and accusing the officers of mishandling her phone and violating her rights. As she continued to pull her arm away during the handcuffing process, officers declared she was resisting arrest, warning that additional charges could follow.
Despite offering her a chance to complete field sobriety exercises, the tension remained high as she questioned every step of the process. Officers also mentioned finding items in her vehicle that raised further concerns about alcohol involvement.
Ultimately, Sienna was placed in the back of the squad car as officers prepared to transport her to jail on suspicion of DUI and resisting arrest. The incident has raised questions about cooperation during traffic stops, the handling of suspected impaired drivers, and the balance between asserting one’s rights and complying with lawful orders.
Whether Sienna was truly under the influence or merely panicked in the moment will likely be determined as the case moves forward.
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