Hunter
09/27/25
An Urbandale man was arrested earlier this week after allegedly driving drunk and striking a light pole.
Police were called to the entrance of the Coral Ridge Mall just after 8pm Wednesday. According to the police report, 61-year-old Matthew Sassatelli was intending to turn north on Coral Ridge Avenue when he made a wide turn, drove over a curb and struck a light pole. Sassatelli allegedly stated later that he blacked out.
Sassatelli reportedly had bloodshot watery eyes, slow-slurred speech, impaired balance and had the odor of ingested alcohol. He allegedly admitted to drinking earlier in the day and while driving prior to the accident. Two bottles of alcohol were reportedly found in his vehicle and Sassatelli allegedly stated several times that he shouldn’t have been driving.
Sassatelli was charged with OWI first offense, Failure to maintain Control, an open container violation, and a seat belt violation. If convicted, he could be sentenced to up to a year in jail.