Didn't Expect Plane To Still Be Overhead

Here's a friendly tip for those hoping to evade police... be sure to look up first. Seattle's KIRO-7 reports the owner of a Ferrari F430 failed to consider the Washington State Patrol airplane overhead, when he attempted to pull a fast one.

Here's what happened: while on a routine patrol Friday night near state Route 520 and Interstate 405, the plane's pilot spotted the speedy car weaving in-and-out of traffic lanes at a fast clip. The pilot alerted troopers, who intercepted the Ferrari near Mercer Street.

Police arrested the car's driver, identified as a 35-year-old man from Monroe, on charges of reckless driving and driving under the influence. He later refused a breathalyzer test, and was released, according to the station.

The passenger in the two-seat high performance car, Kenneth Rhule, told police he was the car's owner... and begged officers not to impound his beloved car with the usual rabble of confiscated Camrys and Malibus (the Chevys, not the Pipers -- Ed.) As the car was parked on private property, officers agreed... providing Rhule arranged the towing of his car on his own. Rhule readily agreed.

The tow truck arrived on scene a short time later... but Rhule sent the driver on his way when he didn't see any officers around. He then got in his car, and took off...

...And was stopped a few blocks away by troopers, who were once again tipped off by the WSP plane, that continued orbiting the scene while events played out.

Rhule was arrested on suspicion of DUI, and obstructing a police officer. He blew a .12 on a breath test, and was booked into the King County Jail.

A common tow truck took his Ferrari to an impound yard.

FMI: www.wa.gov/wsp/about/sod.htm