Sheriff’s deputy arrested for DUI after trying to breach Naval Base Coronado

A San Diego sheriff’s deputy was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after trying to breach the security gate at a Naval base Friday night, prompting guards to shoot at his car, according to authorities

Sgt. Michael Cruz, who was off duty, tried to drive past the main gate at the Naval Air Station North Island, part of Naval Base Coronado, around 10:30 p.m. without clearance, the San Diego Sheriff’s Department said.

There were no injuries.

Cruz was booked on a charge of driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. He was released on his own recognizance and put on administrative leave while an internal affairs investigation continues, the sheriff’s department said.

“The Sheriff’s Department will not tolerate criminal behavior in its ranks and will hold employees accountable for their actions,” the department said in a statement.

In February 2022, a motorist was found with bomb-making materials at the same base gate. The materials were not assembled into a device, and the driver was detained for questioning, the base said at the time.

Naval Base Coronado is one of the training facilities for the Navy SEALS.

With Post wires