LaPaz man arrested on felony DUI charge after alleged vandalism, intoxicated driving

Friday, January 9, 2026 at 3:00 AM

By Kathy Bottorff

A 27-year-old LaPaz man faces a felony operating while intoxicated charge following reports of vehicle vandalism and drunk driving on Tuesday evening.

Marshall County Sheriff's deputies were dispatched to the area of 301 Cale Street and 113 Troyer Street in LaPaz at 7:26 p.m. Tuesday, January 6, following reports of a man breaking windows and slashing tires on a woman's vehicle.

The caller reported that the suspect, later identified as Joshua M. Shaffer, 27, had been drinking and was observed driving a green 2003 Chevrolet Silverado back and forth between two residences in the area.

When deputies arrived and began investigating, they determined that Shaffer had operated a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.

Shaffer was transported to Plymouth Hospital for a certified chemical test. Results showed his blood alcohol content was just under three times Indiana's legal driving limit of .08%.

Shaffer was then transported to the Marshall County Sheriff's Department, where he was booked on a preliminary charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated - Prior Conviction, a Level 6 Felony.

The charge was elevated to felony level due to a previous OWI conviction, as required under Indiana law.

Bond was set at $1,500 cash, and a court date was issued.

The police report did not indicate whether additional charges related to the alleged vandalism would be filed. The investigation into the reported property damage may continue separately.

The Marshall County Prosecutor's Office will review the case for potential formal charging.

Charging information supported by an affidavit of probable cause is merely an allegation that a crime has been committed and that there is only probable cause to believe a crime has been committed. All suspects are presumed innocent throughout the proceedings and are entitled to be represented by counsel and entitled to a trial by jury at which the State is obligated to provide proof beyond a reasonable doubt before a judgment of guilt may be made.