Crime & Safety
Hobart, IN Police: Juveniles Report Man Offering Money, Ride
Hobart, IN – Two juveniles who reported a suspicious encounter with a man in a gray SUV helped Hobart police identify a driver who was later arrested and charged with operating while intoxicated, auth
By Erin Vale · 2026-10-06T16:20:17.917Z
Hobart, IN – Two juveniles who reported a suspicious encounter with a man in a gray SUV helped Hobart police identify a driver who was later arrested and charged with operating while intoxicated, authorities said.
According to the Hobart Police Department , the juveniles reported that a man approached them near Third and Main streets on Sept. 25, offered them money and what they believed was alcohol, then opened his vehicle door while telling them to get inside.
The juveniles ran toward the Hobart Police Department and reported what happened to a school resource officer working an after school program. Their information helped police identify the driver as David Medina, 66, of Hobart , authorities said.
Later that day, an officer located Medina driving and conducted a traffic stop.
Police said Medina acknowledged seeing the juveniles and offering them money but denied offering alcohol or a ride.
During the stop, the officer allegedly observed signs of impairment, including slurred speech and difficulty maintaining balance. Medina admitted consuming alcohol before driving, according to police.
Authorities said a preliminary breath test registered .201 . Police then obtained a court authorized warrant for a blood sample.
Medina was arrested and charged through Hobart City Court with operating while intoxicated and operating while intoxicated endangering a person.
Police commended the juveniles for leaving the situation and quickly reporting the encounter. The department also noted that Medina is not a registered sex offender.
The charges are accusations. Medina is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.