FREEPORT — Police here arrested Delmer Ramos, 26, for allegedly driving under the influence after he reportedly drove his vehicle into the Pecatonica River on June 25.

Police responded to the area of Deleon Street and 18th Avenue for reports of a vehicle that somehow ended up into the river. Ramos, authorities said, was able to escape the car and swim to shore.

Ramos tried to flee on foot but was eventually apprehended, officials said. Police said they investigated and determined Ramos’ was driving while impaired on alcohol.

He was taken into custody and charged with three felony counts of aggravated DUI and other misdemeanor charges. He was processed and released later that day. He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing Thursday, July 11, in Stephenson County Circuit Court.

Ramos’ vehicle was not found until the following day — when Conservation Officers from the state Department of Natural Resources located it downstream of where it had plunged into the water. 

A Christian Aid Ministries search and rescue dive team assisted with the recovery of the vehicle, officials said.

Ramos has no other criminal history in Stephenson County, according to court records.

-Gary Mays