It is often said it’s not how many times you fall down, it’s how many times you get back up. The adage does not apply to a DUI investigation.

This morning at 2:04 a.m. First Sergeant D.F. Purcell, Jr. and Deputy S.A. Fulford were in the Sheetz parking lot at 10 Washington Square Plaza for a complaint. Seemingly oblivious to the presence of uniformed deputies, a black Lincoln Navigator pulled into the lot and parked catawampus in front of the convenience store.

The deputies concluded their investigation of the original complaint and approached the Lincoln driver, who had just exited the store. The driver appeared unsteady on his feet and actually fell down crossing the parking lot.

The driver was identified as Connie Scott, 64, of Culpeper. Scott explained he was coming from “Virginia” and deputies determined he had just shoplifted snacks valued at $9.37 from the Sheetz.

Field sobriety tests were offered and Scott was arrested. He was charged with DUI third offense in 10 years with a blood alcohol content between .15 and .20, driving revoked, shoplifting and drinking while driving. He was held at the Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.

Drive sober or get pulled over.