During the traffic stop, the trooper made observations that resulted in an O.W.I. investigation. The driver, James A. Tobel, 38, from Hammond, IN, was subsequently administered field sobriety tests as well as a certified chemical breath test. The driver failed that test registering .16%. The legal limit for intoxication in Indiana is .08%.
The passenger identified herself as Samantha J. Hellems, 28, from East Chicago, IN. A check of her identification revealed a nationwide warrant for a probation violation from 2017. The original charge was for Burglary. Both individuals were taken into custody without incident. Mr. Tobel is preliminarily charged with Operating While Intoxicated- Class A Misdemeanor and Driving While Suspended.
All persons named in this release are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court. All charges mentioned are merely accusations, actual charges will be determined by the Lake County Prosecutor's Office.
