AUBURN — An out-of-state semi-truck driver was taken into custody in northeastern Indiana last week after state troopers pulled over an erratic tractor-trailer on Interstate 69, leading to an arrest for driving under the influence of marijuana.
The incident occurred just after 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, south of Auburn. An Indiana State Police (ISP) trooper initiated a traffic stop on a semi-tractor-trailer after observing the commercial vehicle speeding and making dangerous lane maneuvers, including drifting between lanes and changing lanes without signaling.
During the interaction with the driver, identified as Brendan Lewis, 26, of Houston, Texas, the trooper detected signs of impairment. A subsequent investigation provided probable cause to arrest Lewis for operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
A lawful search of the semi-truck cab revealed suspected burnt marijuana along with a large quantity of packaged marijuana.
Lewis was arrested and booked on four drug and traffic-related charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, endangerment, possession of a controlled substance, OWI, and operating a vehicle with a controlled substance in the body.
All physical evidence collected during the traffic stop was sealed and transported to the Indiana State Police Regional Laboratory for forensic testing and secure storage. The semi-tractor-trailer combination was impounded as part of the ongoing criminal investigation.
Following the arrest, the Indiana State Police issued a firm reminder to the public regarding the dangers and legal realities of driving under the influence of cannabis.
Officials emphasized that regardless of how minor some individuals may view marijuana possession or consumption, operating a vehicle while under the influence of cannabis or any controlled substance remains strictly illegal across Indiana.
Troopers highlighted that the situation was particularly alarming given the size and weight of a commercial semi-tractor-trailer, a vehicle with the potential to cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities in the event of a collision.
ISP reaffirmed its commitment to patrol state roadways with purpose and remove impaired drivers before crashes occur.
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.
