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Last updated on Tuesday, June 19, 2012
(INDIANAPOLIS) - An Indianapolis Metro Police Department lieutenant was accused of driving under the influence of alcohol in connection with a hit-and-run accident.
Lt. Michael Rinehart was arrested on Monday on preliminary DUI charges and failing to stop after an injury accident, IMPD spokesman Kendale Adams said.
Police said about 2:30 p.m., officers were dispatched to the intersection of 16th Street and North Worth Avenue in Speedway on reports of a hit-and-run accident involving a construction worker.
Witnesses said a white Chevrolet pickup truck hit a man working in the street and continued traveling.
The victim said he was struck by the mirror of the truck and declined medical assistance.
When officers located the truck, they asked the driver, Lt. Rinehart, if he was aware of hitting a construction worker. According to the police report, Rinehart told officers that he was not aware.
Police said upon questioning Rinehart, they smelled alcohol on his breath.
As other officers were being called to the scene to assist with the investigation, Rinehart rinsed his mouth with mouthwash he retrieved from his glove compartment, according to the police report.
Rinehart has 35 years of service with IMPD, and at the time of the incident he was suspended pending a hearing before the merit board. The case remains under further investigation.
He was arrested and booked at the Marion County Arrestee Processing Center.
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