Tippecanoe County – On Saturday, September 27, just after 10:30 p.m., Indiana State Police Trooper Bradley Howell was patrolling State Road 25 near County Road 300 South when he observed a 2008 Kia Sorento traveling northbound that was unable to maintain its lane. Trooper Howell attempted to initiate a traffic stop as the vehicle turned onto County Road 300 South.
The driver accelerated at a high rate of speed and continued westbound on County Road 300 South. The vehicle eventually came to a stop at a residence in the 6000 block of County Road 300 South. The driver, later identified as Laura Brooks, 35, of Lafayette, was safely taken into custody.
Trooper Howell detected the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. A subsequent search of the Kia led to the discovery of suspected marijuana, pills, and drug paraphernalia. Further investigation led Trooper Howell to believe Brooks was operating the vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance.
Troopers also learned that Brooks had multiple active warrants for her arrest out of Howard County, Huntington County, and Tippecanoe County. She was transported to the Tippecanoe County Jail without incident.
Arrested:
- Laura Brooks, 35, Lafayette, Indiana
Preliminary Charges:
- Resisting Law Enforcement with a Vehicle – Level 6 Felony
- Possession of a Legend Drug – Level 6 Felony
- Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated (Endangerment) – Class A Misdemeanor
- Possession of Marijuana (Prior) – Class A Misdemeanor
- Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Class C Misdemeanor
-
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Class C Misdemeanor
Trooper Howell was assisted at the scene by other troopers from the Lafayette Post and the Tippecanoe County Sheiff's Office.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.