Children in car DUI case

A 35-year-old man is facing multiple charges after police say he was found near his stalled vehicle along Route 4 in Yona with two children on board. 

According to a magistrate’s complaint filed in superior court, J.J. Paul told officers he had consumed two beers. However, police reported finding several empty Bud Light cans on the passenger side floorboard and an open can in the cup holder.

Officers also noted Paul’s speech was slurred and his eyes were bloodshot and watery. As he attempted to retrieve his registration and insurance documents, police said he staggered and had to grab the passenger door for support. He allegedly refused to submit to a sobriety test and told officers he needed to drive the children home.

Paul has been charged with two counts of driving while impaired with a child on board as a third-degree felony, driving while impaired as a misdemeanor, and reckless driving as a petty misdemeanor.