Joseph Everett.
ORLANDO, Fla. - A Haines City police officer was arrested Saturday in Orlando under suspicion of reckless driving and DUI, according to online court and jail records.
What we know:
Officer Joseph Everett was arrested on Saturday afternoon near South Street and South Orange Avenue for suspected reckless driving and DUI, according to online court records.
He was also cited for an open container, records show.
Police said Everett's breath smelled of alcohol, that he had blood-shot eyes, and heavy eyelids, according to online records. He provided two breath samples which registered more than three times the legal limit, records stated.
A spokesperson for Haines City Police Department confirmed to FOX 35 that Everett was in a department patrol vehicle at the time of his arrest, and that he was off duty.
He was hired in July 2026, the agency said.
What they're saying:
Haines City Police Chief Isaac Jackson shared a statement with FOX 35 regarding Everett's arrest:
"The reported conduct constitutes a serious violation of the Haines City Police Department’s General Orders and raises significant concerns regarding the officer’s judgment, professionalism, and adherence to the standards and expectations of this agency.
I am deeply concerned and disappointed by the reported actions of former Officer Everett, particularly given that the Haines City Police Department provided him with a second opportunity to serve in law enforcement following his prior separation from another agency.
This situation underscores the importance of maintaining the highest standards of conduct, accountability, and professionalism within our profession.
As always, we remain committed to holding all members of this department to the highest standards of conduct and accountability," he said.
What we don't know:
It's unclear if the officer is still employed by the Haines City police department.
The Source: Some of the information in this article was provided by the Haines City Police Department.