A Couple Passed Out In Traffic While Babysitting

A couple, Paul and Christie Rearden, were arrested after they allegedly got high while on the road and babysitting an infant. A passerby noticed that Paul was slumped over the steering wheel of his vehicle, which was stopped in the middle of St. Clair Street, right in front of the Franklin County House. The passerby then called for a court security deputy. Paul Rearden, 28, was charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence, first offense, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, first-degree wanton endangerment and first-degree criminal abuse of a child under 12. He is held on a $30,220 bond. Christie Rearden was charged with public intoxication, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and first-degree criminal abuse of a child under 12. She is being held on a $20,100 bond.

Multiple charges at once
A person can be charged for several violations at once. Let’s take the case of the Rearden couple, for instance. The security deputy found Paul allegedly passed out, his foot on the brake and only regained consciousness when the deputy banged on his car window. In addition, authorities said they found 47 Percocet pills, an example of a controlled drug released only to people with legitimate medical need for it, while searching the vehicle. The couple also had an infant in the car with them. They were exposing the infant to a potentially harmful or dangerous situation.

This is an important reminder to never abuse drugs or alcohol and drive. Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal in Kentucky. It’s important to note that if you are caught, you will have to pay fees, surcharges and other penalties. If the police catch a repeat offender, that person will face more severe penalties such as license suspension or cancellation. Fortunately, these situations can be avoided. All we need to do is be smart about how we drive. If you ever feel like you can’t drive or you’re not sure if you should drive, don’t! This will only risk your life as well as other people’s lives. What you should do is designate a driver, call a taxi or have someone you know pick you up and drive you home. This way, everyone will get home safely.

Related: Tips To Keep Kids Safe Around Kentucky School Zones

When I read about this incident, I was concerned about the whole situation, particularly the infant passenger in the backseat. This was a dangerous situation, and thankfully someone stopped it from getting worse. I believe that anyone reading about this incident would also be thinking about how horrible the situation could have been.

If you wish to learn more about or get a better understanding of traffic violations in Kentucky, feel free to get in touch with us here at The Schafer Law Office. We’d be glad to help you.