Volunteer football coach at Bartram Trail High School accused of DUI

A volunteer football coach at Bartram Trail High School was arrested and is facing charges for DUI in St. Johns County.

The St. Johns County School district confirmed 28-year-old Darius Lawrence’s volunteer status was revoked following his arrest.

He had been a volunteer coach at the high school for the past three to four years, a spokesperson said.

His Twitter account, which has since been deleted, said he was a linebacker coach.

The report said Lawrence was pulled over at the intersection of Solano Road and A1A Saturday for going 60 mph in a listed 45 mph zone.

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A deputy said they could smell a strong odor of alcoholic beverages and marijuana coming from the vehicle.

According to the report, Lawrence’s eyes were bloodshot and watery, and his speech was slightly slurred.

SJSO said the deputy asked Lawrence to step out of the vehicle to conduct a field sobriety test, but he refused and locked the door.

The deputy said they had to ask at least four more times before he complied.

Lawrence told deputies he was coming from Jacksonville Beach.

The report said Lawrence performed poorly on the field sobriety test and showed numerous indicators of impairment.

Lawrence told the deputy he didn’t consume any alcoholic beverages through the night.

He was taken into custody and transported to the St. Johns County Jail.

The report said Lawrence was given multiple opportunities to take a breathalyzer test but didn't comply.
SJSO said five grams of marijuana, a metal grinder and glass pipe were found in his vehicle.

Cox Media Group