On April 1, deputies conducted a traffic stop on Highway 161 in Montgomery City after observing a vehicle following too closely and an equipment violation. Deputies reported the driver displayed signs of impairment and a preliminary breath test indicated a blood alcohol content above the legal limit. The driver was taken into custody and an evidentiary breath test later confirmed a BAC of nearly twice the legal limit. During the investigation the driver admitted to not possessing a valid driver’s license and being in the United States illegally. Federal authorities were contacted and an immigration detainer was issued. The driver was transported to the MC Jail where the subject was held on the immigration detainer.

On April 2, deputies responded to a residence in Jonesburg for a reported domestic disturbance. According to reports two individuals were involved in a verbal argument that escalated into a physical altercation after accusations of infidelity with both parties admitting to consuming alcohol. During the incident property was damaged and both individuals made conflicting statements regarding who initiated the physical contact. Deputies reviewed video evidence from a cellular device that showed portions of the argument prior to the physical encounter. Based on the investigation both individuals were determined to be primary physical aggressors and were arrested, transported to the MC Jail, pending charges of domestic assault 4th degree.

Also on April 2, deputies responded to an apartment complex in Jonesburg for a report of an injured canine being kept in a crate without adequate shelter, food or water. According to reports the animal had sustained significant injuries, possibly from being struck by a vehicle and was observed with visible wounds and limited mobility while confined in a small enclosure exposed to the elements. Witnesses stated the animal was frequently left unattended and that they had provided food and water out of concern for its wellbeing. The owner refused to voluntarily surrender the animal and resisted deputies when placed under arrest. The individual was arrested and transported to the MC Jail, while the canine was released to animal control for emergency medical treatment. The suspect was charged with animal neglect and resisting arrest.

On April 3, deputies made contact with two individuals near Interstate 70 and Booneslick Road in High Hill after observing ATVs parked along the roadway during early morning hours. Deputies reported that both individuals were under the legal drinking age and were found in possession of alcoholic beverages with additional empty containers located on the ATVs. Deputies also observed a firearm secured on one of the vehicles. Both individuals displayed signs of impairment and performed poorly on field sobriety tests. They were taken into custody for driving while intoxicated with one subject providing a breath sample above the legal limit and the other refusing a breath test, resulting in a blood draw warrant. During the investigation suspected marijuana was also located on scene. One individual was later released with a citation for driving while intoxicated and evidence was collected for further review.

On April 5, deputies conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 70 near Jonesburg after observing a vehicle traveling in the passing lane without yielding. Upon making contact the driver did not possess a valid driver’s license and, through translation, admitted to being in the United States illegally. A records check confirmed the driver’s immigration status and Federal authorities were contacted. The driver was arrested and transported to the MC Jail, where an Immigration Detainer was issued. The vehicle was towed from the scene and no additional criminal charges were sought.

On April 7, deputies responded to a domestic disturbance at a business in New Florence involving individuals in a domestic relationship with an active order of protection in place. Deputies reported that the suspect arrived at the location after repeated attempts to contact the protected party and engaged in a verbal and physical altercation in the parking lot. The suspect allegedly damaged property, forced the victim to the ground and continued the confrontation before fleeing the scene in a vehicle. Witness statements and evidence indicated the suspect violated the order of protection and acted in a threatening and aggressive manner. The suspect was later located, taken into custody and transported to the MC Jail pending charges related to domestic assault, property damage and violation of an order of protection.

On April 8, deputies conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 70 after observing a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed and nearly striking a patrol vehicle before swerving and driving onto the shoulder. According to reports the driver displayed signs of impairment, including bloodshot and watery eyes and the odor of alcohol. Field sobriety tests indicated impairment and a breath test later showed a blood alcohol content of more than three times the legal limit. The driver was arrested, transported to the MC Jail and charged with driving while intoxicated.

On April 9, deputies conducted a traffic stop near Kamp Street in Bellflower on a vehicle pulling a trailer without license plates and no brake lights. Deputies reported the occupants of the vehicle were making furtive movements and upon making contact they observed one of the occupants of the vehicle was holding a large machete in his hand. During the investigation consent was given to search where a multi-colored container was found to contain methamphetamine and a red pouch was found to contain 2 syringes and another container containing methamphetamine. Two individuals were arrested, transported to the MC Jail and charged with possession of a controlled substance (meth) and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, with one subject also facing prior/persistent offender and vehicle violations.