DENVER (KDVR) — A Denver deputy accused in a late-night hit-and-run crash told police he panicked, left the scene and later reported his car stolen, according to an arrest affidavit.
The Aurora Police Department filed for the arrest of Deputy Jeremiah Espinoza-Young after the crash caused a reported $15,000 worth of damage at a King Soopers warehouse, the document shows.
Espinoza-Young faces counts of attempting to influence a public servant, false reporting to authorities, leaving the scene after striking unattended property and careless driving.
An attorney for Espinoza-Young declined to comment on Thursday.
New Year’s Day crash
On the morning of Jan. 1, 2024, officers responded to a hit-and-run crash in Adams County.
According to the affidavit, the reporting party said just before 3 a.m., a white 2023 Subaru Legacy struck a concrete barrier and pole at a King Soopers warehouse on Tower Road.
Denver deputy accused of lying about stolen vehicle after hit-and-run
The reporting party said he saw a male in his 20s talking on the phone. He was wearing all black and was described as 5 feet, 7 inches and about 200 pounds.