A 57-year-old man faces drunk driving and drug paraphernalia charges following a traffic stop on Tuesday afternoon on U.S. 31 near Plymouth.
Marshall County Officer Truty initiated a traffic stop at approximately 4:34 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30, on U.S. 31 near 14th Road after observing a moving violation.
During the traffic stop, the officer observed that the driver, Richard W. Hanson, 57, was exhibiting signs of alcohol intoxication.
Following the investigation, Hanson was found to have synthetic urine—a substance often used to attempt to defeat drug testing. His blood alcohol content measured .15% or higher, nearly twice Indiana's legal driving limit of .08%.
Hanson was transported to the Marshall County Jail and booked on preliminary charges of operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .15% or more, operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated endangering, and possession of synthetic urine. His cash bond was set at $1,500.
Indiana law imposes enhanced penalties for drivers with a blood alcohol content of .15% or higher, recognizing the increased danger posed by severely impaired drivers. The "endangering" charge indicates circumstances that created a substantial risk to others.
Possession of synthetic urine is a criminal offense in Indiana when possessed with the intent to defraud a drug or alcohol screening test.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges mentioned are allegations, and defendants have the right to legal representation and a trial.
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