The fire chief in Port Richey faces charges of driving under the influence and battery on a law enforcement officer.

  • Timothy Ollie Fussell charged with DUI, battery
  • Incident happened Sunday on Madison Avenue; wife also charged
  • Bay News 9's Saundra Weathers has more during evening newscasts

Timothy Ollie Fussell was arrested Sunday. His wife, Suzanna, was also arrested, according to the New Port Richey Police Department.

Officers responded to a motorcycle crash on Madison Avenue and said Fussell was treated for injuries.

Fussell was "showing signs of impairment" at the scene, and officers said he became disruptive when told he had to remain there. His wife was accused of impeding the crash investigation and was "forcefully removed" from the scene.

Fussell was taken to the hospital, and the police department again said his wife was disruptive. She "verbally and then physically intervened" while Fussell was being treated, and she was eventually charged with obstruction and tampering with evidence.

After she was placed in custody, Fussell refused to remain seated and struck an officer in the face, the police department said.

He was charged with DUI and battery. Both were taken to Land O' Lakes Detention Center.

Bay News 9 reached out to the Port Richey Fire Department for comment. The department declined.