'Sexting' while driving caused crash, Tampa man tells deputies

NEW PORT RICHEY— A man told deputies he was exchanging steamy text messages with his girlfriend when he was involved in a minor traffic accident.

Another motorist flagged down a Pasco County Sheriff's deputy early Sunday and told her about the accident on State Road 54.

The deputy says 29-year-old Phernando Cuello of Tampa first told her the accident was caused by another driver who had cut him off. Then, Cuello said he was "sexting" while driving.

Cuello was taken to jail after he failed a sobriety test. The deputy noted a strong smell of alcohol, glassy eyes and slurred speech. He refused a breath test.

No phone listing was available for Cuello, who was later released from jail without having to post bail. He is charged with driving under the influence.