By Virginia Chamlee 8/3/10 7:00 AM 6
The Florida Bar last week announced that the state Supreme Court punished 27 Florida lawyers for offenses including fraud and false advertising. Of the 27 attorneys who were disciplined, eight were disbarred, seven were suspended, two were publicly reprimanded, three were ordered to pay restitution and three were placed on probation.
Though many of those punished were found to be involved in money laundering scams, a few of the attorneys’ problems seemed to stem from issues in their personal lives. R. Scott Whitehead, of Destin, was suspended “until further notice” for engaging “in a systematic scheme to deprive his clients of their money in the form of fees and costs, while not performing the legal services for which he was retained. Additionally, he was arrested four times for alcohol-related problems since May 2009.”
full article at: http://floridaindependent.com/5215/florida-supreme-court-punishes-27-state-lawyers
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Also see: Panning for Gold: DUI Attorney Has Vast Expertise in Drinking, Driving at: http://blogs.browardpalmbeach.com/juice/2009/09/panning_for_gold_dui_attorney.php
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Friday, July 9, 2010
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Destin attorney Scott Whitehead to serve jail time
Original Story at: http://www.thedestinlog.com/articles/violating-14232-jail-driving.html
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Tom McLaughlin - 2010-06-18 15:06:00
A local attorney whose alcohol abuse has gotten him into trouble several times in the last couple of years will serve an 11-month jail sentence for his second probation violation.
R. Scott Whitehead of Destin was sentenced to a total of approximately a year in jail for violating probation on charges of DUI, driving with a suspended license and reckless driving.
County Judge T. Patterson Maney ordered Whitehead to serve six months for violating on the DUI conviction, 60 days on the driving with suspended license conviction and 90 days for violating on the reckless driving conviction.
Maney said that all of the jail sentences should be served consecutively, according to Adrienne Emerson, who prosecuted the case.
The judge reserved sentencing for violating on a fourth charge until Sept. 30.
“He wants to review the case at that time,” Emerson said. “To see if Mr. Whitehead is eligible to go into a long term in-patient rehabilitation program.”
Rehab will not be an option while Whitehead is incarcerated, Emerson said.
She said the state had sought 23 months in prison for Whitehead. The judge’s 11 month sentence will allow Whitehead to serve all of his time in the Okaloosa County Jail and not be transferred to a state facility.
For the back story, click here.
Whitehead was arrested twice in an eight-day period in May of 2009. The first arrest came after he left the scene of an accident, authorities said. The second arrest was for DUI, speeding and driving with a suspended license.
He violated his probation on those charges when he was arrested for criminal mischief that August.
He was sentenced to serve 60 days in jail and undergo outpatient rehabilitation in February
Whitehead was arrested again last month on a violation of probation charge after he entered the home of man who didn’t know him and inquired about a woman named “Becky” or “Barbara.”
A deputy who contacted him after the trespassing violation reported that Whitehead appeared intoxicated. He was later arrested.
On June 9 the Florida Bar ordered that Whitehead be suspended from practicing law. The suspension stems not only from the repeated arrests and probation violations but also from more than a dozen complaints of negligence against him, Bar officials said.
Bar counsel Olivia Klein said she intends to file a formal complaint against Whitehead that could lead to his permanent disbarment in the state of Florida.
Whitehead, who defended clients in criminal and DUI cases, appeared in court between his final two arrests as the lawyer for Kyle Walling, who is facing murder charges for his alleged involvement in the shooting death of 17-year-old Christopher Pitcock.
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Tom McLaughlin - 2010-06-18 15:06:00
A local attorney whose alcohol abuse has gotten him into trouble several times in the last couple of years will serve an 11-month jail sentence for his second probation violation.
R. Scott Whitehead of Destin was sentenced to a total of approximately a year in jail for violating probation on charges of DUI, driving with a suspended license and reckless driving.
County Judge T. Patterson Maney ordered Whitehead to serve six months for violating on the DUI conviction, 60 days on the driving with suspended license conviction and 90 days for violating on the reckless driving conviction.
Maney said that all of the jail sentences should be served consecutively, according to Adrienne Emerson, who prosecuted the case.
The judge reserved sentencing for violating on a fourth charge until Sept. 30.
“He wants to review the case at that time,” Emerson said. “To see if Mr. Whitehead is eligible to go into a long term in-patient rehabilitation program.”
Rehab will not be an option while Whitehead is incarcerated, Emerson said.
She said the state had sought 23 months in prison for Whitehead. The judge’s 11 month sentence will allow Whitehead to serve all of his time in the Okaloosa County Jail and not be transferred to a state facility.
For the back story, click here.
Whitehead was arrested twice in an eight-day period in May of 2009. The first arrest came after he left the scene of an accident, authorities said. The second arrest was for DUI, speeding and driving with a suspended license.
He violated his probation on those charges when he was arrested for criminal mischief that August.
He was sentenced to serve 60 days in jail and undergo outpatient rehabilitation in February
Whitehead was arrested again last month on a violation of probation charge after he entered the home of man who didn’t know him and inquired about a woman named “Becky” or “Barbara.”
A deputy who contacted him after the trespassing violation reported that Whitehead appeared intoxicated. He was later arrested.
On June 9 the Florida Bar ordered that Whitehead be suspended from practicing law. The suspension stems not only from the repeated arrests and probation violations but also from more than a dozen complaints of negligence against him, Bar officials said.
Bar counsel Olivia Klein said she intends to file a formal complaint against Whitehead that could lead to his permanent disbarment in the state of Florida.
Whitehead, who defended clients in criminal and DUI cases, appeared in court between his final two arrests as the lawyer for Kyle Walling, who is facing murder charges for his alleged involvement in the shooting death of 17-year-old Christopher Pitcock.
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Saturday, June 19, 2010
Destin attorney suspended after arrests
2010-06-16 21:27:12
Destin attorney R. Scott Whitehead has been suspended by the Florida Bar Association.
The Florida Supreme Court on June 9 suspended Whitehead from practicing law indefinitely following arrests for driving under the influence and violation of probation. Whitehead cannot accept any new clients, and he has 30 days to cease representing his clients and close his office.
Read the state Supreme Court's petition to suspend Whitehead
“We’re trying to do the best we can to protect the clients’ interests and the clients’ legal rights,” said Olivia Klein, bar counsel representing the First Judicial District for the Florida Bar Association, which filed the petition against Whitehead. “That’s our primary concern.”
In addition to shutting down his office, Whitehead must also shut down his website and furnish a copy of his suspension order to all of his current clients, judges and opposing counsels in cases he was working on. As of Wednesday, his website was still active.
Whitehead’s suspension stems not only from his recent arrest but from more than a dozen complaints of negligence that have been filed against him by his clients.
Klein said she will file a formal complaint against Whitehead in the next 60 days and that he could be permanently disbarred in Florida.
Whitehead was arrested twice in an eight-day period last May. The first arrest followed his leaving the scene of an accident, authorities said, and the second was for speeding, driving with a suspended license and DUI.
He violated his probation on those charges when he was arrested for criminal mischief in August.
Whitehead was sentenced to 60 days in jail for driving under the influence after the state had sought a year.
Whitehead was arrested again last month on a violation of probation charge after he entered the home of man who didn’t know him and inquired about a woman named “Becky” or “Barbara.” When located across the street, at a home occupied by a woman named Becky, Whitehead appeared intoxicated, a deputy said in his report. While talking to the officer, Whitehead urinated on himself, the report said.
His sentencing hearing on the latest probation violation charge is scheduled for today.
READ MORE ABOUT THE CASE
Destin attorney Whitehead jailed again
Destin attorney sentenced to 60 days for DUIs
Destin attorney Whitehead back in the news for golf cart mischief
Defense attorney charged with DUI »
Destin attorney arrested again »
Attorney guilty of one DUI, other charge reduced »
Whitehead attorney: DUI story "false" »
========================================
2010-06-16 21:27:12
Destin attorney R. Scott Whitehead has been suspended by the Florida Bar Association.
The Florida Supreme Court on June 9 suspended Whitehead from practicing law indefinitely following arrests for driving under the influence and violation of probation. Whitehead cannot accept any new clients, and he has 30 days to cease representing his clients and close his office.
Read the state Supreme Court's petition to suspend Whitehead
“We’re trying to do the best we can to protect the clients’ interests and the clients’ legal rights,” said Olivia Klein, bar counsel representing the First Judicial District for the Florida Bar Association, which filed the petition against Whitehead. “That’s our primary concern.”
In addition to shutting down his office, Whitehead must also shut down his website and furnish a copy of his suspension order to all of his current clients, judges and opposing counsels in cases he was working on. As of Wednesday, his website was still active.
Whitehead’s suspension stems not only from his recent arrest but from more than a dozen complaints of negligence that have been filed against him by his clients.
Klein said she will file a formal complaint against Whitehead in the next 60 days and that he could be permanently disbarred in Florida.
Whitehead was arrested twice in an eight-day period last May. The first arrest followed his leaving the scene of an accident, authorities said, and the second was for speeding, driving with a suspended license and DUI.
He violated his probation on those charges when he was arrested for criminal mischief in August.
Whitehead was sentenced to 60 days in jail for driving under the influence after the state had sought a year.
Whitehead was arrested again last month on a violation of probation charge after he entered the home of man who didn’t know him and inquired about a woman named “Becky” or “Barbara.” When located across the street, at a home occupied by a woman named Becky, Whitehead appeared intoxicated, a deputy said in his report. While talking to the officer, Whitehead urinated on himself, the report said.
His sentencing hearing on the latest probation violation charge is scheduled for today.
READ MORE ABOUT THE CASE
Destin attorney Whitehead jailed again
Destin attorney sentenced to 60 days for DUIs
Destin attorney Whitehead back in the news for golf cart mischief
Defense attorney charged with DUI »
Destin attorney arrested again »
Attorney guilty of one DUI, other charge reduced »
Whitehead attorney: DUI story "false" »
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Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Local attorney Whitehead jailed again
May 03, 2010 9:14 PM
Tom McLaughlin
Northwest Florida Daily News
R. Scott Whitehead, a Destin attorney arrested twice in 2009 on suspicion of driving drunk, and jailed for 60 days in February for violating probation, is back in Okaloosa County’s custody.
Whitehead, who last Tuesday represented murder suspect Kyle Walling at a bond hearing, was arrested Friday, again on a violation of probation charge.
Deputies reported that Whitehead had entered the home of man who didn’t know him and inquired about a woman named “Becky” or “Barbara.”
When located across the street, at a home occupied by a woman named Becky, Whitehead appeared intoxicated, a deputy said in his report. While talking to the officer Whitehead urinated on himself, the report said.
The deputy contacted the lawyer’s probation officer, who confirmed that Whitehead was prohibited from drinking as a term of his probation, the report said. She obtained a warrant for Whitehead’s arrest, the report said.
Tom McLaughlin
Northwest Florida Daily News
R. Scott Whitehead, a Destin attorney arrested twice in 2009 on suspicion of driving drunk, and jailed for 60 days in February for violating probation, is back in Okaloosa County’s custody.
Whitehead, who last Tuesday represented murder suspect Kyle Walling at a bond hearing, was arrested Friday, again on a violation of probation charge.
Deputies reported that Whitehead had entered the home of man who didn’t know him and inquired about a woman named “Becky” or “Barbara.”
When located across the street, at a home occupied by a woman named Becky, Whitehead appeared intoxicated, a deputy said in his report. While talking to the officer Whitehead urinated on himself, the report said.
The deputy contacted the lawyer’s probation officer, who confirmed that Whitehead was prohibited from drinking as a term of his probation, the report said. She obtained a warrant for Whitehead’s arrest, the report said.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
From The Destin Log
Double click for larger image or print out
http://www.thedestinlog.com/common/printer/view.php?db=destinlog&id=12786
Destin attorney sentenced to 60 days for DUIs
2010-02-09 11:32:43
SHALIMAR — Destin attorney R. Scott Whitehead was taken into custody Monday after being sentenced to 60 days in jail for driving under the influence.
Whitehead was also sentenced to 30 days, with credit for time served, for criminal mischief, according to Adrienne Emerson, the assistant state attorney prosecuting the case.
County Judge T. Patterson Maney imposed the sentence. Emerson said the state had sought a year in jail.
Whitehead was arrested twice in an eight-day period last May. The first arrest followed his leaving the scene of an accident, authorities said, and the second for speeding, driving with a suspended license and DUI.
He violated his probation on those charges when he was arrested for criminal mischief in August, Emerson said.
Whitehead chose to offer a plea on all charges.
Along with the 60-day sentence, Maney also ordered Whitehead’s probation be reinstated and ordered him to attend DUI school, consent to random testing and enter an intensive outpatient program.
Whitehead’s law firm specializes in civil litigation and criminal and family law, including drug cases and DUIs, according to its Web site.
READ MORE ABOUT WHITEHEAD'S OTHER CHARGES
Destin attorney Whitehead back in the news for golf cart mischief
Defense attorney charged with DUI »
Destin attorney arrested again »
Attorney guilty of one DUI, other charge reduced »
Whitehead attorney: DUI story "false" »
============================================
http://www.thedestinlog.com/common/printer/view.php?db=destinlog&id=9926
Attorney guilty of one DUI; other reduced
Andrew Gant, Florida Freedom Newspapers
2009-07-03 00:01:57
A Destin attorney facing two DUI charges entered a plea to one of them and has been sentenced, prosecutors said Thursday.
Robert Scott Whitehead, 38, was adjudicated guilty and sentenced to 12 months probation.
He pleaded to his first arrest, which occurred May 23 in Destin. Lawmen said he crashed into two vehicles and left.
Eight days later, Whitehead was arrested again in Fort Walton Beach for speeding, DUI, driving with a suspended license and refusing a breath test.
The state couldn't prove he'd been drinking in the second case and reduced the charge to reckless driving.
All told, he will pay about $1,900 in fines and court costs plus restitution; have his driver license suspended for a year; perform 50 hours of community service; complete multi-offender DUI school; attend a victim-impact panel; and comply with treatment.
His vehicle will be impounded for 30 days and an ignition lock will be required for a year.
Whitehead's law firm handles DUI cases.
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http://www.thedestinlog.com/common/printer/view.php?db=destinlog&id=11227
Destin attorney Whitehead back in the news for golf cart mischief
(with ARCHIVE STORIES)Robbyn Brooks, Florida Freedom Newspapers
2009-09-25 15:47:34
DESTIN — A man who hired attorney Robert Scott Whitehead was drinking with him prior to a golf cart accident that damaged decorative landscaping timber and stop sign, according to an Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office offense report.
Whitehead had driven the man to Whitehead's home to meet his wife, the man told a deputy. He said he became uncomfortable with Whitehead's "odd behavior" and Whitehead insisted on driving him home even though the man wanted to walk.
The man reported that Whitehead drove into several yards and struck what he thought were signs, according to the offense report.
READ MORE ABOUT WHITEHEAD'S OTHER CHARGES
Defense attorney charged with DUI »
Destin attorney arrested again »
Attorney guilty of one DUI, other charge reduced »
Whitehead attorney: DUI story "false" »
As the two approached the intersection of Tranquility Lane and Seastar Vista, Whitehead said, "Watch this," according to the report. That's when Whitehead intentionally drove directly toward the stop sign, damaging it.
The man said both he and Whitehead were "heavily intoxicated" at the time the sign was damaged, according to the report.
A witness told the deputy he had seen the golf cart driven by Whitehead dragging the stop sign. The witness identified Whitehead in a photo lineup, the report said.
The deputy attempted to reach Whitehead at his home and his office. He also left a voicemail that was unreturned, the report said.
When found, Whitehead was charged with criminal mischief after a deputy verified his golf cart had sustained damage that matched the witnesses statements.
According to the report, the man who was with Whitehead told the deputy he'd attempted to fire Whitehead before, but Whitehead come to his house "intoxicated" and "uninvited" and once even barged in.
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http://www.thedestinlog.com/news/destin-9370-attorney-whitehead.html
Destin attorney arrested for DUI after two accidents
(with ARREST REPORT)Wendy Victora, Florida Freedom Newspapers
2009-05-25 17:22:53
Local defense attorney, Robert Scott Whitehead, was arrested and faces multiple charges in connection with two motor vehicle accidents in Destin Saturday night.
Whitehead, who is 38, was charged with DUI with property damage and personal injury, refusing to submit to a blood alcohol test and leaving the scene of a traffic crash. This was the second time he has been charged with refusing to submit to a blood alcohol test, according to an Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office press release.
Investigators say Whitehead of Destin hit a car at the intersection of U.S. Highway 98 and Scenic Highway 98 and then hit another vehicle near The Track. The accidents caused major traffic back-ups.
One of the accidents was a head-on collision, according to the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office incident report. No one was injured in the vehicle Whitehead struck, the report said.
Whitehead told the deputy he was not injured, but the deputy noted he appeared to be heavily intoxicated. His face was "slightly red," his eyes were "glassy" and "watery" and his speech was slurred and difficult to understand.
"I don't want to go to jail," he said, during the traffic investigation.
When the fire department arrived on scene and tried to check on Whitehead, he attempted to put the vehicle into gear to drive away. The deputies and one of the firefighters managed to turn the vehicle off and take away the keys, according to the report.
Whitehead told the deputy he was unable to find his driver's license, registration or proof of insurance. After repeated attempts to locate the documents, he found his registration and proof of insurance.
He refused to submit to field sobriety tests and had trouble finding his shoes and putting them on. The deputy finally put one of his sandals on for him, but they were unable to locate the other one.
He said he could walk on his own but had trouble getting to the patrol car. Once there, he struggled to get into the vehicle, laying down on his left side and kicking his feet "as if to push off an object that was not there," the incident report noted.
On the way to jail, Whitehead asked the deputy if he was OK. Getting out of the car, he stumbled and fell against the deputy, pushing him against the wall. He refused to submit to a breath test and later asked the deputy to call him a cab.
He was booked into the county jail.
According to the attorney's Web site, Whitehead has been a Destin resident for nearly three decades and an attorney for more than 11 of those years. The firm specializes in the areas of Civil Litigation, as well as Criminal and Family Law to include drug cases, DUIs, all felonies and misdemeanors, divorce, child custody, modifications, contempt, guardianship and adoption."
Whitehead has litigated some high profile local cases. He represented a South Walton High School coach who was arrested and later convicted of driving under the influence. He also represented a man who was suing a Destin condo firm after he claimed that at least seven foreign workers were living in a unit rented to a single occupant.
The full arrest report follows:
On May 23, 2009, I responded to the area of Highway 98 and Scenic Highway 98, Destin, in reference to a traffic crash with injuries.
I observed what appeared to be two different crashes due to the distance between scenes. I made contact with D/S Kelly Henderson, who was already on scene, informed me that the crashes were related and that the driver of the black GMC was possibly intoxicated. I went to the black GMC which was observed to be facing west bound, however had struck another vehicle which was in a turn lane for the east bound lanes.
I checked on the driver, who was the only person in the vehicle and later found to be the registered owner of the black GMC later identified as Robert Scott Whitehead, who stated that he was not injured and appeared to be heavily intoxicated. I then approached the passengers of the vehicle which was hit, head on, by Whitehead who stated that they were all ok and did not need medical attention. I then returned to Whitehead for observation.
I observed a minor injury to Whitehead’s right knee. The injury appeared to be an abrasion, which was bleeding, however Whitehead stated that he was ok and unhurt. I observed a moderate to strong odor of alcohol emitting from the vehicle and the breath of Whitehead. Whitehead face was slightly red and his eyes were glassy, watery, had extremely dilated pupils and I further observed a nystagmus in both eyes while Whitehead was looking straight ahead.
In attempting to communicate with Whitehead, he was hard to understand due to having a slow his speech being slurred and mumbled on occasions. While D/S Henderson was conducting a traffic crash investigation Whitehead made the statement “I don’t want to go to jail.”
After the fire department arrived on scene they began to check on the status of Whitehead. While doing so, Whitehead reached up to the ignition and cranked the vehicle then reached for the gear handle, to again drive the vehicle. With the assistance of an unknown fire fighter, we were able to turn the vehicle off and take the keys from Whitehead’s possession.
For purposes of the traffic crash investigation I requested Whitehead’s driver’s license, registration and proof of insurance. Whitehead appeared to be confused and began to look in the pocket of the driver side door, then in the center console and finally in the glove box compartment. Whitehead informed me that he could not find any of the requested information at which point I asked him if he had his wallet. Whitehead then grabbed the driver side door and began to pull it towards him, in an attempt to again look inside the pocket on the door, and hit me with the door. Again Whitehead was unable to locate any of the requested information.
On his third attempt Whitehead was able to locate his registration and proof of insurance. Whitehead did not have his driver’s license present with him. Whitehead again refused any medical treatment by the fire department.
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http://www.thedestinlog.com/news/whitehead-9491-guard-crash.html
Destin attorney arrested again days after last DUI arrest June 01, 2009 4:56 PM
Wendy Victora, Florida Freedom Newspapers
FORT WALTON BEACH - A Destin attorney was arrested for the second time in eight days Sunday, this time for DUI, excessive speed, driving with a suspended license and refusing to take a breathalyzer test.
Robert Scott Whitehead, 38, was stopped by a Fort Walton Beach police officer just after midnight near Paradise Point shopping center downtown after he sped past a patrol vehicle, crossed the yellow line and almost struck a concrete median, according to his DUI probable cause documentation packet.
He then swerved and narrowly missed two cars, the packet said. He received four tickets and was taken to the Okaloosa County Jail about 5 a.m., according to jail officials.
He was booked and placed in the jail's new commitment housing section, according to county Corrections Director Larry Caskey.
About 10:30 a.m., a tower guard watched Whitehead tie a piece of cloth around his neck and attaching the other end to a bed railing, Caskey said.
The guard called a floor guard, who went to Whitehead's cell. Whitehead heard the guard open heavy sliding doors and untied the cloth from his neck, Caskey said.
Whitehead was moved to the medical housing unit for observation, where he remained at mid-day on Tuesday.
Whitehead's refusal to take a breathalyzer test Sunday was his third, according to the documents.
Whitehead, who lives in Destin, also was arrested May 24 after he left the scene of a traffic crash, according to an Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office news release. He had caused another crash moments earlier, the release said.
He refused to take the test after that crash. He also had difficulty finding his paperwork or his shoes and had trouble walking without assistance.
He has a June 30 court date scheduled for his latest arrest.
Whitehead's law firm specializes in civil litigation and criminal and family law, including drug cases and DUIs, according to its Web site.
Photo: http://common.onset.freedom.com/images/copyrighted.gif
http://www.thedestinlog.com/common/printer/view.php?db=destinlog&id=12786
Destin attorney sentenced to 60 days for DUIs
2010-02-09 11:32:43
SHALIMAR — Destin attorney R. Scott Whitehead was taken into custody Monday after being sentenced to 60 days in jail for driving under the influence.
Whitehead was also sentenced to 30 days, with credit for time served, for criminal mischief, according to Adrienne Emerson, the assistant state attorney prosecuting the case.
County Judge T. Patterson Maney imposed the sentence. Emerson said the state had sought a year in jail.
Whitehead was arrested twice in an eight-day period last May. The first arrest followed his leaving the scene of an accident, authorities said, and the second for speeding, driving with a suspended license and DUI.
He violated his probation on those charges when he was arrested for criminal mischief in August, Emerson said.
Whitehead chose to offer a plea on all charges.
Along with the 60-day sentence, Maney also ordered Whitehead’s probation be reinstated and ordered him to attend DUI school, consent to random testing and enter an intensive outpatient program.
Whitehead’s law firm specializes in civil litigation and criminal and family law, including drug cases and DUIs, according to its Web site.
READ MORE ABOUT WHITEHEAD'S OTHER CHARGES
Destin attorney Whitehead back in the news for golf cart mischief
Defense attorney charged with DUI »
Destin attorney arrested again »
Attorney guilty of one DUI, other charge reduced »
Whitehead attorney: DUI story "false" »
============================================
http://www.thedestinlog.com/common/printer/view.php?db=destinlog&id=9926
Attorney guilty of one DUI; other reduced
Andrew Gant, Florida Freedom Newspapers
2009-07-03 00:01:57
A Destin attorney facing two DUI charges entered a plea to one of them and has been sentenced, prosecutors said Thursday.
Robert Scott Whitehead, 38, was adjudicated guilty and sentenced to 12 months probation.
He pleaded to his first arrest, which occurred May 23 in Destin. Lawmen said he crashed into two vehicles and left.
Eight days later, Whitehead was arrested again in Fort Walton Beach for speeding, DUI, driving with a suspended license and refusing a breath test.
The state couldn't prove he'd been drinking in the second case and reduced the charge to reckless driving.
All told, he will pay about $1,900 in fines and court costs plus restitution; have his driver license suspended for a year; perform 50 hours of community service; complete multi-offender DUI school; attend a victim-impact panel; and comply with treatment.
His vehicle will be impounded for 30 days and an ignition lock will be required for a year.
Whitehead's law firm handles DUI cases.
============================================
http://www.thedestinlog.com/common/printer/view.php?db=destinlog&id=11227
Destin attorney Whitehead back in the news for golf cart mischief
(with ARCHIVE STORIES)Robbyn Brooks, Florida Freedom Newspapers
2009-09-25 15:47:34
DESTIN — A man who hired attorney Robert Scott Whitehead was drinking with him prior to a golf cart accident that damaged decorative landscaping timber and stop sign, according to an Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office offense report.
Whitehead had driven the man to Whitehead's home to meet his wife, the man told a deputy. He said he became uncomfortable with Whitehead's "odd behavior" and Whitehead insisted on driving him home even though the man wanted to walk.
The man reported that Whitehead drove into several yards and struck what he thought were signs, according to the offense report.
READ MORE ABOUT WHITEHEAD'S OTHER CHARGES
Defense attorney charged with DUI »
Destin attorney arrested again »
Attorney guilty of one DUI, other charge reduced »
Whitehead attorney: DUI story "false" »
As the two approached the intersection of Tranquility Lane and Seastar Vista, Whitehead said, "Watch this," according to the report. That's when Whitehead intentionally drove directly toward the stop sign, damaging it.
The man said both he and Whitehead were "heavily intoxicated" at the time the sign was damaged, according to the report.
A witness told the deputy he had seen the golf cart driven by Whitehead dragging the stop sign. The witness identified Whitehead in a photo lineup, the report said.
The deputy attempted to reach Whitehead at his home and his office. He also left a voicemail that was unreturned, the report said.
When found, Whitehead was charged with criminal mischief after a deputy verified his golf cart had sustained damage that matched the witnesses statements.
According to the report, the man who was with Whitehead told the deputy he'd attempted to fire Whitehead before, but Whitehead come to his house "intoxicated" and "uninvited" and once even barged in.
=========================================
http://www.thedestinlog.com/news/destin-9370-attorney-whitehead.html
Destin attorney arrested for DUI after two accidents
(with ARREST REPORT)Wendy Victora, Florida Freedom Newspapers
2009-05-25 17:22:53
Local defense attorney, Robert Scott Whitehead, was arrested and faces multiple charges in connection with two motor vehicle accidents in Destin Saturday night.
Whitehead, who is 38, was charged with DUI with property damage and personal injury, refusing to submit to a blood alcohol test and leaving the scene of a traffic crash. This was the second time he has been charged with refusing to submit to a blood alcohol test, according to an Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office press release.
Investigators say Whitehead of Destin hit a car at the intersection of U.S. Highway 98 and Scenic Highway 98 and then hit another vehicle near The Track. The accidents caused major traffic back-ups.
One of the accidents was a head-on collision, according to the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office incident report. No one was injured in the vehicle Whitehead struck, the report said.
Whitehead told the deputy he was not injured, but the deputy noted he appeared to be heavily intoxicated. His face was "slightly red," his eyes were "glassy" and "watery" and his speech was slurred and difficult to understand.
"I don't want to go to jail," he said, during the traffic investigation.
When the fire department arrived on scene and tried to check on Whitehead, he attempted to put the vehicle into gear to drive away. The deputies and one of the firefighters managed to turn the vehicle off and take away the keys, according to the report.
Whitehead told the deputy he was unable to find his driver's license, registration or proof of insurance. After repeated attempts to locate the documents, he found his registration and proof of insurance.
He refused to submit to field sobriety tests and had trouble finding his shoes and putting them on. The deputy finally put one of his sandals on for him, but they were unable to locate the other one.
He said he could walk on his own but had trouble getting to the patrol car. Once there, he struggled to get into the vehicle, laying down on his left side and kicking his feet "as if to push off an object that was not there," the incident report noted.
On the way to jail, Whitehead asked the deputy if he was OK. Getting out of the car, he stumbled and fell against the deputy, pushing him against the wall. He refused to submit to a breath test and later asked the deputy to call him a cab.
He was booked into the county jail.
According to the attorney's Web site, Whitehead has been a Destin resident for nearly three decades and an attorney for more than 11 of those years. The firm specializes in the areas of Civil Litigation, as well as Criminal and Family Law to include drug cases, DUIs, all felonies and misdemeanors, divorce, child custody, modifications, contempt, guardianship and adoption."
Whitehead has litigated some high profile local cases. He represented a South Walton High School coach who was arrested and later convicted of driving under the influence. He also represented a man who was suing a Destin condo firm after he claimed that at least seven foreign workers were living in a unit rented to a single occupant.
The full arrest report follows:
On May 23, 2009, I responded to the area of Highway 98 and Scenic Highway 98, Destin, in reference to a traffic crash with injuries.
I observed what appeared to be two different crashes due to the distance between scenes. I made contact with D/S Kelly Henderson, who was already on scene, informed me that the crashes were related and that the driver of the black GMC was possibly intoxicated. I went to the black GMC which was observed to be facing west bound, however had struck another vehicle which was in a turn lane for the east bound lanes.
I checked on the driver, who was the only person in the vehicle and later found to be the registered owner of the black GMC later identified as Robert Scott Whitehead, who stated that he was not injured and appeared to be heavily intoxicated. I then approached the passengers of the vehicle which was hit, head on, by Whitehead who stated that they were all ok and did not need medical attention. I then returned to Whitehead for observation.
I observed a minor injury to Whitehead’s right knee. The injury appeared to be an abrasion, which was bleeding, however Whitehead stated that he was ok and unhurt. I observed a moderate to strong odor of alcohol emitting from the vehicle and the breath of Whitehead. Whitehead face was slightly red and his eyes were glassy, watery, had extremely dilated pupils and I further observed a nystagmus in both eyes while Whitehead was looking straight ahead.
In attempting to communicate with Whitehead, he was hard to understand due to having a slow his speech being slurred and mumbled on occasions. While D/S Henderson was conducting a traffic crash investigation Whitehead made the statement “I don’t want to go to jail.”
After the fire department arrived on scene they began to check on the status of Whitehead. While doing so, Whitehead reached up to the ignition and cranked the vehicle then reached for the gear handle, to again drive the vehicle. With the assistance of an unknown fire fighter, we were able to turn the vehicle off and take the keys from Whitehead’s possession.
For purposes of the traffic crash investigation I requested Whitehead’s driver’s license, registration and proof of insurance. Whitehead appeared to be confused and began to look in the pocket of the driver side door, then in the center console and finally in the glove box compartment. Whitehead informed me that he could not find any of the requested information at which point I asked him if he had his wallet. Whitehead then grabbed the driver side door and began to pull it towards him, in an attempt to again look inside the pocket on the door, and hit me with the door. Again Whitehead was unable to locate any of the requested information.
On his third attempt Whitehead was able to locate his registration and proof of insurance. Whitehead did not have his driver’s license present with him. Whitehead again refused any medical treatment by the fire department.
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http://www.thedestinlog.com/news/whitehead-9491-guard-crash.html
Destin attorney arrested again days after last DUI arrest June 01, 2009 4:56 PM
Wendy Victora, Florida Freedom Newspapers
FORT WALTON BEACH - A Destin attorney was arrested for the second time in eight days Sunday, this time for DUI, excessive speed, driving with a suspended license and refusing to take a breathalyzer test.
Robert Scott Whitehead, 38, was stopped by a Fort Walton Beach police officer just after midnight near Paradise Point shopping center downtown after he sped past a patrol vehicle, crossed the yellow line and almost struck a concrete median, according to his DUI probable cause documentation packet.
He then swerved and narrowly missed two cars, the packet said. He received four tickets and was taken to the Okaloosa County Jail about 5 a.m., according to jail officials.
He was booked and placed in the jail's new commitment housing section, according to county Corrections Director Larry Caskey.
About 10:30 a.m., a tower guard watched Whitehead tie a piece of cloth around his neck and attaching the other end to a bed railing, Caskey said.
The guard called a floor guard, who went to Whitehead's cell. Whitehead heard the guard open heavy sliding doors and untied the cloth from his neck, Caskey said.
Whitehead was moved to the medical housing unit for observation, where he remained at mid-day on Tuesday.
Whitehead's refusal to take a breathalyzer test Sunday was his third, according to the documents.
Whitehead, who lives in Destin, also was arrested May 24 after he left the scene of a traffic crash, according to an Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office news release. He had caused another crash moments earlier, the release said.
He refused to take the test after that crash. He also had difficulty finding his paperwork or his shoes and had trouble walking without assistance.
He has a June 30 court date scheduled for his latest arrest.
Whitehead's law firm specializes in civil litigation and criminal and family law, including drug cases and DUIs, according to its Web site.
Photo: http://common.onset.freedom.com/images/copyrighted.gif
Friday, March 19, 2010
From The Destin Log
Double click for larger image or print out http://www.thedestinlog.com/common/printer/view.php?db=destinlog&id=12786
Destin attorney sentenced to 60 days for DUIs
2010-02-09 11:32:43
SHALIMAR — Destin attorney R. Scott Whitehead was taken into custody Monday after being sentenced to 60 days in jail for driving under the influence.
Whitehead was also sentenced to 30 days, with credit for time served, for criminal mischief, according to Adrienne Emerson, the assistant state attorney prosecuting the case.
County Judge T. Patterson Maney imposed the sentence. Emerson said the state had sought a year in jail.
Whitehead was arrested twice in an eight-day period last May. The first arrest followed his leaving the scene of an accident, authorities said, and the second for speeding, driving with a suspended license and DUI.
He violated his probation on those charges when he was arrested for criminal mischief in August, Emerson said.
Whitehead chose to offer a plea on all charges.
Along with the 60-day sentence, Maney also ordered Whitehead’s probation be reinstated and ordered him to attend DUI school, consent to random testing and enter an intensive outpatient program.
Whitehead’s law firm specializes in civil litigation and criminal and family law, including drug cases and DUIs, according to its Web site.
READ MORE ABOUT WHITEHEAD'S OTHER CHARGES
Destin attorney Whitehead back in the news for golf cart mischief
Defense attorney charged with DUI »
Destin attorney arrested again »
Attorney guilty of one DUI, other charge reduced »
Whitehead attorney: DUI story "false" »
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http://www.thedestinlog.com/common/printer/view.php?db=destinlog&id=9926
Attorney guilty of one DUI; other reduced
Andrew Gant, Florida Freedom Newspapers
2009-07-03 00:01:57
A Destin attorney facing two DUI charges entered a plea to one of them and has been sentenced, prosecutors said Thursday.
Robert Scott Whitehead, 38, was adjudicated guilty and sentenced to 12 months probation.
He pleaded to his first arrest, which occurred May 23 in Destin. Lawmen said he crashed into two vehicles and left.
Eight days later, Whitehead was arrested again in Fort Walton Beach for speeding, DUI, driving with a suspended license and refusing a breath test.
The state couldn't prove he'd been drinking in the second case and reduced the charge to reckless driving.
All told, he will pay about $1,900 in fines and court costs plus restitution; have his driver license suspended for a year; perform 50 hours of community service; complete multi-offender DUI school; attend a victim-impact panel; and comply with treatment.
His vehicle will be impounded for 30 days and an ignition lock will be required for a year.
Whitehead's law firm handles DUI cases.
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http://www.thedestinlog.com/common/printer/view.php?db=destinlog&id=11227
Destin attorney Whitehead back in the news for golf cart mischief
(with ARCHIVE STORIES)Robbyn Brooks, Florida Freedom Newspapers
2009-09-25 15:47:34
DESTIN — A man who hired attorney Robert Scott Whitehead was drinking with him prior to a golf cart accident that damaged decorative landscaping timber and stop sign, according to an Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office offense report.
Whitehead had driven the man to Whitehead's home to meet his wife, the man told a deputy. He said he became uncomfortable with Whitehead's "odd behavior" and Whitehead insisted on driving him home even though the man wanted to walk.
The man reported that Whitehead drove into several yards and struck what he thought were signs, according to the offense report.
READ MORE ABOUT WHITEHEAD'S OTHER CHARGES
Defense attorney charged with DUI »
Destin attorney arrested again »
Attorney guilty of one DUI, other charge reduced »
Whitehead attorney: DUI story "false" »
As the two approached the intersection of Tranquility Lane and Seastar Vista, Whitehead said, "Watch this," according to the report. That's when Whitehead intentionally drove directly toward the stop sign, damaging it.
The man said both he and Whitehead were "heavily intoxicated" at the time the sign was damaged, according to the report.
A witness told the deputy he had seen the golf cart driven by Whitehead dragging the stop sign. The witness identified Whitehead in a photo lineup, the report said.
The deputy attempted to reach Whitehead at his home and his office. He also left a voicemail that was unreturned, the report said.
When found, Whitehead was charged with criminal mischief after a deputy verified his golf cart had sustained damage that matched the witnesses statements.
According to the report, the man who was with Whitehead told the deputy he'd attempted to fire Whitehead before, but Whitehead come to his house "intoxicated" and "uninvited" and once even barged in.
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http://www.thedestinlog.com/news/destin-9370-attorney-whitehead.html
Destin attorney arrested for DUI after two accidents
(with ARREST REPORT)Wendy Victora, Florida Freedom Newspapers
2009-05-25 17:22:53
Local defense attorney, Robert Scott Whitehead, was arrested and faces multiple charges in connection with two motor vehicle accidents in Destin Saturday night.
Whitehead, who is 38, was charged with DUI with property damage and personal injury, refusing to submit to a blood alcohol test and leaving the scene of a traffic crash. This was the second time he has been charged with refusing to submit to a blood alcohol test, according to an Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office press release.
Investigators say Whitehead of Destin hit a car at the intersection of U.S. Highway 98 and Scenic Highway 98 and then hit another vehicle near The Track. The accidents caused major traffic back-ups.
One of the accidents was a head-on collision, according to the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office incident report. No one was injured in the vehicle Whitehead struck, the report said.
Whitehead told the deputy he was not injured, but the deputy noted he appeared to be heavily intoxicated. His face was "slightly red," his eyes were "glassy" and "watery" and his speech was slurred and difficult to understand.
"I don't want to go to jail," he said, during the traffic investigation.
When the fire department arrived on scene and tried to check on Whitehead, he attempted to put the vehicle into gear to drive away. The deputies and one of the firefighters managed to turn the vehicle off and take away the keys, according to the report.
Whitehead told the deputy he was unable to find his driver's license, registration or proof of insurance. After repeated attempts to locate the documents, he found his registration and proof of insurance.
He refused to submit to field sobriety tests and had trouble finding his shoes and putting them on. The deputy finally put one of his sandals on for him, but they were unable to locate the other one.
He said he could walk on his own but had trouble getting to the patrol car. Once there, he struggled to get into the vehicle, laying down on his left side and kicking his feet "as if to push off an object that was not there," the incident report noted.
On the way to jail, Whitehead asked the deputy if he was OK. Getting out of the car, he stumbled and fell against the deputy, pushing him against the wall. He refused to submit to a breath test and later asked the deputy to call him a cab.
He was booked into the county jail.
According to the attorney's Web site, Whitehead has been a Destin resident for nearly three decades and an attorney for more than 11 of those years. The firm specializes in the areas of Civil Litigation, as well as Criminal and Family Law to include drug cases, DUIs, all felonies and misdemeanors, divorce, child custody, modifications, contempt, guardianship and adoption."
Whitehead has litigated some high profile local cases. He represented a South Walton High School coach who was arrested and later convicted of driving under the influence. He also represented a man who was suing a Destin condo firm after he claimed that at least seven foreign workers were living in a unit rented to a single occupant.
The full arrest report follows:
On May 23, 2009, I responded to the area of Highway 98 and Scenic Highway 98, Destin, in reference to a traffic crash with injuries.
I observed what appeared to be two different crashes due to the distance between scenes. I made contact with D/S Kelly Henderson, who was already on scene, informed me that the crashes were related and that the driver of the black GMC was possibly intoxicated. I went to the black GMC which was observed to be facing west bound, however had struck another vehicle which was in a turn lane for the east bound lanes.
I checked on the driver, who was the only person in the vehicle and later found to be the registered owner of the black GMC later identified as Robert Scott Whitehead, who stated that he was not injured and appeared to be heavily intoxicated. I then approached the passengers of the vehicle which was hit, head on, by Whitehead who stated that they were all ok and did not need medical attention. I then returned to Whitehead for observation.
I observed a minor injury to Whitehead’s right knee. The injury appeared to be an abrasion, which was bleeding, however Whitehead stated that he was ok and unhurt. I observed a moderate to strong odor of alcohol emitting from the vehicle and the breath of Whitehead. Whitehead face was slightly red and his eyes were glassy, watery, had extremely dilated pupils and I further observed a nystagmus in both eyes while Whitehead was looking straight ahead.
In attempting to communicate with Whitehead, he was hard to understand due to having a slow his speech being slurred and mumbled on occasions. While D/S Henderson was conducting a traffic crash investigation Whitehead made the statement “I don’t want to go to jail.”
After the fire department arrived on scene they began to check on the status of Whitehead. While doing so, Whitehead reached up to the ignition and cranked the vehicle then reached for the gear handle, to again drive the vehicle. With the assistance of an unknown fire fighter, we were able to turn the vehicle off and take the keys from Whitehead’s possession.
For purposes of the traffic crash investigation I requested Whitehead’s driver’s license, registration and proof of insurance. Whitehead appeared to be confused and began to look in the pocket of the driver side door, then in the center console and finally in the glove box compartment. Whitehead informed me that he could not find any of the requested information at which point I asked him if he had his wallet. Whitehead then grabbed the driver side door and began to pull it towards him, in an attempt to again look inside the pocket on the door, and hit me with the door. Again Whitehead was unable to locate any of the requested information.
On his third attempt Whitehead was able to locate his registration and proof of insurance. Whitehead did not have his driver’s license present with him. Whitehead again refused any medical treatment by the fire department.
===========================================
http://www.thedestinlog.com/news/whitehead-9491-guard-crash.html
Destin attorney arrested again days after last DUI arrest June 01, 2009 4:56 PM
Wendy Victora, Florida Freedom Newspapers
FORT WALTON BEACH - A Destin attorney was arrested for the second time in eight days Sunday, this time for DUI, excessive speed, driving with a suspended license and refusing to take a breathalyzer test.
Robert Scott Whitehead, 38, was stopped by a Fort Walton Beach police officer just after midnight near Paradise Point shopping center downtown after he sped past a patrol vehicle, crossed the yellow line and almost struck a concrete median, according to his DUI probable cause documentation packet.
He then swerved and narrowly missed two cars, the packet said. He received four tickets and was taken to the Okaloosa County Jail about 5 a.m., according to jail officials.
He was booked and placed in the jail's new commitment housing section, according to county Corrections Director Larry Caskey.
About 10:30 a.m., a tower guard watched Whitehead tie a piece of cloth around his neck and attaching the other end to a bed railing, Caskey said.
The guard called a floor guard, who went to Whitehead's cell. Whitehead heard the guard open heavy sliding doors and untied the cloth from his neck, Caskey said.
Whitehead was moved to the medical housing unit for observation, where he remained at mid-day on Tuesday.
Whitehead's refusal to take a breathalyzer test Sunday was his third, according to the documents.
Whitehead, who lives in Destin, also was arrested May 24 after he left the scene of a traffic crash, according to an Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office news release. He had caused another crash moments earlier, the release said.
He refused to take the test after that crash. He also had difficulty finding his paperwork or his shoes and had trouble walking without assistance.
He has a June 30 court date scheduled for his latest arrest.
Whitehead's law firm specializes in civil litigation and criminal and family law, including drug cases and DUIs, according to its Web site.
Photo: http://common.onset.freedom.com/images/copyrighted.gif
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