Wrong Kind of “Hit and Run” Leads to Alleged DUI – Not RBI – for Former Angel

IRVINE, CA (February 27, 2008): Irvine police have obtained an arrest warrant for former Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim infielder, Scott Spiezio, stemming from an alleged drunken driving incident that occurred December 30, 2007 in the City of Irvine.

The warrant for Spiezio, an Irvine resident, includes charges of driving with a blood-alcohol level of 0.08 percent or more, hit and run with property damage, and aggravated assault and battery.

According to a press release posted by the Irvine Police Department, Irvine officers responded to a report of a solo vehicle crash at Campus and Carlson on December 30, 2007. They arrived to find that a 2004 BMW, registered to Spiezio, had crashed into a curb and through a fence. Following the crash, the driver reportedly fled the scene.

Further investigation lead police to a neighbor of Spiezio’s who told officers he was assaulted by Spiezio immediately following the collision at their condominium complex a short distance from the crash scene. According to the neighbor, Spiezio arrived home disheveled and apparently injured. When the neighbor tried to help, Spiezio proceeded to vomit in the neighbor’s condo and assault him causing significant injuries.

Police believe Spiezio left a Newport Beach Bar at about 12:20 AM after having several vodka drinks, Lt. Rick Handfield of the Irvine Police Department said. Police are not releasing the bar’s name at this time.  

Most recently Spiezio has played for the St. Louis Cardinals, but this afternoon the team announced his release after learning of the warrant for his arrest. “We hope Scott will continue to seek appropriate help and wish him the best in baseball, but more importantly in life,” said the Cardinals General Manager, John Mozeliak.

Spiezio also missed about a month last season with the Cardinals reportedly due to a substance abuse problem.

The arrest warrant was filed in Orange County Harbor Court yesterday and provides for a $10,000 bail. The District Attorney’s office also stated that the 35 year old Spiezio could face up to two years in prison if he is convicted.