Crawford County, IN – A New Year’s Day traffic stop in southern Indiana ended with an arrest for operating while intoxicated after a state trooper observed signs of impairment during a roadside encounter.
According to the Indiana State Police Jasper Post, the incident occurred Thursday morning, January 1, as Trooper Kayla Denk-Mundy was patrolling State Road 37 near Eckerty. Police say the trooper observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed and initiated a traffic stop with assistance from the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, which was already in the area.
Authorities report that Trooper Denk-Mundy made contact with the driver, later identified as David Sanchez-Muniz, 43, of Kentucky. While speaking with him, police say the trooper observed visible signs of impairment. Following the roadside investigation, Sanchez-Muniz was transported to the Crawford County Jail for a chemical test, according to state police.
Police say Sanchez-Muniz was arrested and preliminarily charged with the following offenses:
- Operating While Intoxicated – Class A Misdemeanor
- Operating a Vehicle Without Ever Receiving a License – Class B Misdemeanor
The arresting officer was Trooper Kayla Denk-Mundy, with assistance from Trooper Jon Villanueva and the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office.
Sanchez-Muniz is currently being held on bond. As with all criminal cases, the charges are allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Indiana State Police continue to emphasize increased patrols during holiday periods, citing public safety concerns related to impaired driving, especially during New Year’s celebrations.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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