By Kameel Stanley, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, September 11, 2010
CLEARWATER - A Pinellas County sheriff's deputy was sideswiped Saturday while he was on patrol in his cruiser, officials said.
Deputy Paul Pantel was taken to the hospital for minor injuries after the incident, which happened about 12:45 p.m. at Keene Road and Imperial Palm Drive. He is in good condition and expected to recover.
Authorities said Pantel was driving a 2005 Chevy Impala when a 1999 Suzuki driven by Betty Espinoza, 37, of Clearwater hit him.
Neither Espinoza, who investigators said admitted violating the right of way while changing lanes, or her passenger were injured.
