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Haines City officer fired after DUI arrest in Orlando while driving marked patrol vehicle: HCPD

Court records show the off-duty officer was arrested by Orlando police and later provided breath samples nearly three times the legal limit.
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HAINES CITY, Fla. — A Haines City police officer has been fired following a DUI arrest in Orange County Saturday while driving an agency-issued marked patrol vehicle, according to the Haines City Police Department (HCPD).

Former Officer Joseph Everett, 29, was employed by the department at the time of his arrest. HCPD said he was off duty and driving a marked patrol vehicle when the incident occurred.

He was hired in July 2026 and was terminated Saturday as a result of the arrest.

Everett was arrested Saturday by the Orlando Police Department on DUI and reckless driving charges, according to documents filed in Orange County court.

According to a breath alcohol affidavit, Everett provided two breath samples that measured 0.266 and 0.265, more than three times Florida's legal limit of 0.08.

An alcohol influence form completed during the investigation noted an odor of alcohol, bloodshot eyes and heavy eyelids.

Pasco County mom of 5 takes in 3 children left without food or power whose mother faces neglect charges

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Pasco County mom of 5 takes in 3 children whose mother faces neglect charges