Gilroy Man Arrested for 7th DUI with .197 BAC After Near-Collision

A 28-year-old Gilroy man, Junior Bernardino, has been arrested for his seventh suspected driving under the influence (DUI) offense in San Martin, Santa Clara County. The arrest followed an incident where Bernardino's vehicle nearly rear-ended a patrol cruiser belonging to Sergeant Nick Carlin of the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office. Bernardino's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was recorded at .197, more than twice the legal limit of .08.

The incident occurred when Bernardino, driving a white sedan, swerved dangerously and went off the road twice before nearly colliding with Sgt. Carlin's vehicle on Center Avenue. When the sergeant attempted to initiate a stop, Bernardino reportedly tried to flee. Deputies apprehended him shortly thereafter near East Middle Avenue.

According to the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office, Bernardino has a significant history of impaired driving, with six prior DUI convictions, four of which were felonies. His driver's license had also been suspended 13 times. An open box of beer was found in the back seat of his vehicle at the time of his arrest.

Bernardino was booked into the Santa Clara County Jail on multiple charges, including DUI. His vehicle was impounded following the arrest. The Sheriff's Office emphasized the severe risks associated with impaired driving, stating, "Drunk driving is dangerous and deadly. This reckless behavior puts everyone on the road at risk." The repeated nature of Bernardino's offenses highlights ongoing concerns regarding public safety on the roads.