Former Connecticut Police Officer Arrested for DUI After Near Miss with Polk County Deputy

Photo Courtesy of Polk County Sheriff's Office

Lakeland, FL (May 7, 2025) — A former Connecticut police officer is facing DUI charges after nearly colliding with a Polk County Sheriff’s deputy late Saturday night.

According to the Polk County Sheriff's Office, 42-year-old Michael Dimeglio was arrested on May 7, 2025, after deputies observed his Chevrolet Camaro drifting through lanes and veering into oncoming traffic along Socrum Loop Road North in Lakeland. Dimeglio then swerved back into his lane—nearly hitting a deputy's patrol vehicle—forcing the deputy to brake suddenly to avoid a crash.

Deputies conducted a traffic stop near a Publix, during which Dimeglio reportedly failed to stop his car multiple timesbefore finally coming to a halt. Upon contact, deputies noticed bloodshot, watery eyes, a strong smell of alcohol, and confused behavior.

When asked for his driver’s license, Dimeglio patted his pockets blankly, failed to respond, and eventually claimed it was in the trunk.

Deputies observed he was unsteady, had slurred speech, dilated pupils, and needed to lean on his vehicle for balance. He admitted to drinking alcohol while returning from the beach. His blood alcohol content (BAC) was recorded at .168, which is over twice the legal limit.

Dimeglio also stated he was a former officer with the Norwalk Police Department in Connecticut, serving for 9 yearsbefore being terminated in 2020 for misconduct.

He was arrested and charged with DUI (M2).

Sheriff Grady Judd commented:

“This reckless behavior put lives in danger, and it's especially disappointing coming from someone who once wore a badge. Law enforcement officers are held to a higher standard, and this former officer made a choice that could have cost lives.”

Dimeglio was booked into the Polk County Jail, and the investigation is ongoing.

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