Video captures trooper using PIT maneuver to stop wrong-way driver on Palmetto Expressway
A newly released dashcam footage from Local 10 News shows a Florida Highway Patrol trooper swiftly responding to a wrong-way driver in a stolen vehicle on the Palmetto Expressway in northwest Miami-Dade. The incident took place around 11:30 p.m. on Feb. 21 when troopers noticed a black SUV heading eastbound in the westbound lanes of the bustling highway.
The video captures the moment the driver attempted to reverse upon encountering the trooper’s patrol car. The trooper quickly initiated a PIT maneuver, skillfully stopping the SUV against a guardrail. Subsequent footage shows the trooper questioning the suspect, identified as 39-year-old John Michael Actisdano.
In the video, the trooper queries Actisdano about what substance he had taken and how. Actisdano reveals that he had snorted a mix of fentanyl and MDMA, commonly known as “Molly.” Investigators discovered that Actisdano was operating a stolen SUV with a suspended license. Additionally, two clear bags containing a white powdery substance were found in the vehicle.
Authorities confirmed that a dog found in the back seat was received by a local animal control agency as per the arrest report. Actisdano was taken to Jackson West Medical Center for assessment before being apprehended. Despite the request for tests, Actisdano declined to provide urine or blood samples citing safety concerns.
As of the latest update, Actisdano is currently in custody at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, facing charges including grand theft of a vehicle, driving under the influence, and knowingly driving with a suspended license.
This incident underscores the dangers associated with impaired driving and the importance of swift law enforcement intervention in such cases. The video footage serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of irresponsible actions on the road, highlighting the need for vigilance and enforcement to ensure public safety.
Local authorities continue to prioritize road safety measures and crackdown on reckless driving behaviors to prevent similar incidents in the future. The trooper’s quick actions in utilizing the PIT maneuver effectively stopped the wrong-way driver, preventing a potentially catastrophic situation on a busy highway.
The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies and local organizations play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and security of communities. By swiftly responding to incidents of this nature, authorities aim to deter dangerous behaviors on the road and uphold public safety standards. Such interventions serve as a vital deterrent against reckless driving practices, ultimately safeguarding lives and promoting responsible road behavior within the community.