Malone, Florida — A reported suspicious vehicle in Malone led to a DUI and drug arrest Wednesday night, prompting a response from Jackson County deputies.
According to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched at approximately 8:22 p.m. to the area of Old U.S. Road and Highway 2 after a caller reported a vehicle stopped at a stop sign with the engine running and the driver asleep behind the wheel.
Deputies identified the driver as Harvey Burch. Investigators said they observed indicators of impairment and conducted standardized field sobriety exercises at the scene. Based on the investigation, deputies determined Burch was allegedly in physical control of the vehicle while under the influence.
During the investigation, deputies reported locating controlled substances inside the vehicle that were not prescribed to Burch. He was taken into custody and transported to the Jackson County Correctional Facility.
Burch was charged with:
- Driving While Under the Influence
- Refusal to Submit to Breath and Urine Testing
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
The incident occurred at a rural intersection commonly used by local commuters traveling between Malone and surrounding areas, where stopped vehicles can pose a traffic safety concern after dark.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that DUI investigations remain a priority due to the risk impaired driving poses to motorists and first responders. The case remains subject to the judicial process, and all charges are allegations until proven in court.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office also used the release to highlight available outreach resources for substance use assistance. Anyone seeking help may contact JCSO Outreach Coordinators Ashley Sellers (850-693-5021) or Stephanie Culbreath (850-693-3242).
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