Lost in the news of the sudden death of Kobe Bryant was former NFL safety Donovin Darius getting himself arrested and charged with driving under the influence, according to Michael DiRocco of ESPN.
The 44-year-old crashed his car and then told rescue workers he had ingested 20 to 30 pills and felt suicidal. That caused them to bring him immediately to a hospital. Jacksonville police found two pill bottles in his car.
“Police found two pill bottles in Darius’ car but were unable to conduct a field sobriety test because Darius was unable to stand on his own and had very slurred speech, per the source.
Darius was hospitalized under the Florida Mental Health Act of 1971, which allows involuntary institutionalization and examination of an individual for up to 72 hours if that individual is suspected of having a mental illness or is in danger of harming themselves or others. Commonly called the Baker Act, it can be initiated by judges, law enforcement officials, physicians or mental health professionals.”
Darius was the 25th overall pick in 1998 and played nine seasons for the Jaguars, compiling 14 interceptions, 7 forced fumbles, 6 fumble recoveries and 631 tackles.
No court date has yet been set.
