Overview
Officers from the Crystal Lake Police Department conducted a traffic stop after receiving reports of swerving, leading to an investigation and arrest of an 18-year-old driver, Ellie, on multiple charges related to suspected impaired driving, possession of alcohol, marijuana, and resisting arrest.
Initial Traffic Stop and Investigation
- Officers stopped Ellie after receiving complaints of erratic driving.
- Ellie admitted to being a poor driver but denied recent alcohol or marijuana use while driving.
- She acknowledged using marijuana one to two days prior, denied alcohol consumption that day, and disclosed taking supplements.
- Officers observed a bottle of vodka and drug paraphernalia in plain view inside the vehicle.
- Ellie disputed the right of the officers to search her car without a warrant and resisted the search.
Arrest and Detention Process
- Officers explained the legal grounds for searching Ellie's car based on probable cause and plain view exception.
- Ellie became agitated, resisted being handcuffed, and repeatedly argued about her rights.
- Physical resistance escalated during the handcuffing and search process.
- Officers warned Ellie that further non-compliance could result in additional restraint.
- Ellie was eventually restrained, transported to the police station, and remained combative throughout.
Evidence and Charges
- A breath sample was eventually obtained from Ellie, showing a blood alcohol concentration of .091.
- Charges filed included DUI, aggravated battery to a peace officer, resisting/obstructing, DUI with BAC of .08 or more, illegal transportation/possession of alcohol, retail theft, and minor in possession of alcohol.
- Ellie was reminded she is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Legal Rights and Officer Procedures
- Officers cited the mobile conveyance and plain view exceptions as justification for the search.
- Ellie continually asserted her belief that a warrant was required for a vehicle search.
- Officers attempted to de-escalate and offered Ellie options for cooperation to avoid further restraint.
Decisions
- Arrest Ellie for suspected DUI and multiple related charges
- Search vehicle based on probable cause (plain view of alcohol and paraphernalia)
- Transport Ellie to police department following resistance
Action Items
- TBD – Officers: Contact Ellie's sister per her request for notification.
- TBD – Officers: Complete booking process and document incident.
- TBD – Ellie: Await legal proceedings to address charges.