The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
It was reported that on the evening of September 8, a 27-year-old woman was driving in the parking lot of a Hobby Lobby store in Oklahoma City. A 30-year-old man was sitting in the passenger seat, and eight children, ages 4 – 13, were also in the truck. Some of the kids were sitting in the truck bed.
Another driver in the lot notified the police that their car had been hit, and when officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department arrived, they noted that no one was harmed.
The person whose car was struck made the police aware of the truck with the children in the back. They also informed the officers that they suspected the driver was drunk.
After the police performed a traffic stop, it was reported that the man in the passenger seat told the children they would get hurt if they did not run away.
According to reports, the kids fled in different directions. One of the officers was able to chase and collect the youngsters to bring them to a safe place.
A different officer stayed with the driver and passenger from the truck, and it was asserted that they were both intoxicated.
The pair were reportedly uncooperative while being placed under arrest. The driver allegedly tried to escape several times.
The driver is expected to face charges for driving under the influence, driving without insurance, driving without a valid state driver’s license, and eight counts of child endangerment.
It is expected that the passenger will also be charged with eight counts of child endangerment.
Child Protective Services placed the children in the care of one of their family members.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a criminal offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.