KNOX CO. — A Hazelton man is currently being held at the Knox County Jail after being arrested Tuesday evening following a traffic stop on US 50 near Gray Barn Road for suspected impaired driving. The driver, Jaret VanPatten, 27, was traveling with his four-year-old daughter and six-year-old son in the vehicle at the time of the incident.
At approximately 5:08 p.m. on Tuesday, December 2, Indiana State Police Trooper Tanner Hurley and deputies from the Knox County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on VanPatten’s vehicle. The initial reason for the stop was excessive speed, and reports that the vehicle had nearly struck two other cars.
Upon speaking with VanPatten, officers detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage and noted signs of impairment. The investigation continued at Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, where authorities determined VanPatten was impaired. During his time at the hospital, he was also arrested for disorderly conduct. Toxicology reports are currently pending.
VanPatten faces multiple criminal charges, including two felony offenses due to the presence of his minor children. He has been formally charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated with passengers less than 18 years old, neglect of a dependent, OWI and disorderly conduct.
In Indiana, an OWI offense is automatically elevated to a Level 6 Felony when the driver is 21 or older and is transporting a passenger under the age of 18. This classification carries a potential prison sentence of six months to two-and-a-half years and a fine up to $10,000.
Following the arrest, VanPatten was transported to the Knox County Jail where he is being held on bond.
The two children were safely released into the custody of a relative.
The Indiana State Police led the investigation with assistance from the Knox County Sheriff’s Office.
Those facing criminal charges are considered innocent until proven guilty through a fair and due legal process. Accusations alone do not imply guilt; the judicial system will evaluate the presented evidence to reach a verdict.
