WHITLEY CO. – Earlier this morning, Indiana State Police Master Trooper Todd Reed was patrolling on State Road 9, just north of Columbia City. At approximately 9:30 a.m. he observed a Honda passenger vehicle alleged to be traveling south on SR9 near CR500N at 77 mph, where the speed limit is posted as 55 mph.
During the course of the subsequent traffic stop, Reed would learn that the family of five – which included the driver, his pregnant wife, and their two children ages (3) and (15 months)- were headed to attend a family funeral service in Columbia City. Also during the course of the traffic stop, Reed would quickly detect that the driver, Alex J. Kincaid (31), of Akron, Ohio, was exhibiting very obvious physical indications commonly associated with alcohol impairment.
As per routine investigatory practice, Reed conducted a battery of Standard Field Sobriety Tests at the road side. During that testing, Kincaid was alleged to have tossed an item of contraband off into the side ditch. Reed recovered the item and discovered is was a vaping device containing a suspected THC liquid. Kincaid was taken into custody and transported to the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department for further investigation. (Kincaid’s wife, who was completely sober, was released from the traffic stop with her children.)
At the WCSD, Reed administered a chemical breath test to Kincaid. That test found a breath alcohol concentration of (.21), which is nearly three times the (.08) legal limit in Indiana.
Reed arrested Kincaid and then had him booked into custody at the Whitley County Jail several related charges.
Arrested: Alex James Kincaid (31) of Akron, Ohio
Charges:
- Operating While Intoxicated (Passengers <18yrs old), Level 6 Felony
- Obstruction of Justice, Level 6 Felony
- Operating While Intoxicated w/BRAC (.15) or More, A Misdemeanor
- Possession of Controlled Substance, A Misdemeanor
Trooper Reed was assisted in this investigation by several troopers from the Fort Wayne Post.
“It goes without saying that this situation could have easily resulted in a different outcome for a family that was already mourning the loss of a loved one. The Indiana State Police continually reminds and encourages all Hoosiers to drive responsibly. Always have a designated sober driver before hitting the road- especially when there is precious cargo onboard,” a media release from ISP said.
