LOS ANGELES - A Los Angeles Police Department officer faces charges, including operating a boat while under the influence, after allegedly crashing a boat into a personal watercraft.
Officer David Guzman (pictured, left) faces charges of boating under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident without rendering aid.
Two people aboard the personal watercraft were injured in the crash Saturday on Lake San Antonio in Monterey County, where Guzman was arrested this weekend. Authorities said Guzman was piloting a 20-foot speedboat.
An 18-year-old passenger on the personal watercraft suffered serious injuries. He suffered injuries to his vertebrae, pelvis, spleen and liver. Surgery was scheduled for Monday.
The operator, a 19-year-old man, suffered minor injuries
"He was arrested for driving under the influence, under the Harbor And Safety Code, for driving a vessel while intoxicated" said Sgt. Catherine Plows of the LAPD. "Officer Guzman is assigned to home, pending further investigation. This investigation is in its infancy. We should not rush to judgement."
The LAPD is conducting an internal investigation.
If felony charges in the criminal case are filed against the nine-year veteran, he must turn in his gun, badge and identification. He would then be relieved from duty.
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