Palm Springs Woman Arrested for Alleged DUI, Assault on Police Officers

PALM SPRINGS — A woman, identified as Melinda Haley, was arrested on Tuesday, April 11th, 2023, for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol and assaulting police officers. The incident began when the Palm Springs Police Department (PSPD) received a report of a vehicle partially off the roadway and facing the wrong direction in the 300 block of S. Palm Canyon Drive at around 3:59 AM.

Upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered that the vehicle was occupied by Haley, a 25-year-old resident of Desert Hot Springs. During the investigation, officers determined that Haley had been driving under the influence of alcohol. Moreover, it was found out that Haley’s driver’s license had been revoked, and she was on probation for DUI.

As the officers attempted to make an arrest, Haley allegedly headbutted one of the officers and attempted to kick out the windows of the police cruiser. She also allegedly spat on several officers who were trying to restrain her.

EMS staff later attempted to evaluate her for injuries, but Haley spat on them as well, police said.

Chief Andy Mills of the PSPD expressed frustration over the incident. “As the Chief of Police, it’s beyond frustrating to see a repeat DUI offender continue to put innocent lives in danger. The fact that this suspect also chose to assault the officers attempting to make the arrest only compounds the gravity of their actions. It’s unacceptable, and we will continue to pursue all legal avenues to ensure that justice is served and that our officers are protected from such senseless acts of violence,” he said.

Haley was transported to the John Benoit Detention Facility in Indio, where she was charged with DUI, resisting arrest, assault on a peace officer, violation of probation, and a warrant related to a prior DUI with injury. The incident highlights the dangers of driving under the influence and the importance of obeying traffic laws to prevent harm to oneself and others on the road. It also underscores the need for law enforcement agencies to be vigilant and proactive in addressing repeat offenders and protecting their officers from violent assaults.