BEDFORD – A routine traffic stop in Bedford led to an OWI arrest on the night of September 2, 2024, according to local law enforcement officials.
At approximately 9:58 p.m., Bedford Police Officer Christian Anderson observed a maroon Cadillac STS exhibiting erratic driving behavior. The vehicle, driven by 29-year-old Zachary Riddell, was seen crossing the center line and nearly striking the curb while traveling on 15th Street.
The situation escalated when Riddell reportedly turned onto 16th Street, driving west on what is designated as a one-way eastbound street. This prompted the officer to initiate a traffic stop.
Upon approaching the vehicle, Officer Anderson said Riddle had bloodshot and glossy eyes and slurred speech, and the officer detected the odor of alcohol from both the car and Riddell’s breath. The officer also observed that Riddell’s clothing appeared to be soiled.
When questioned, Riddell admitted to consuming alcohol earlier that day. He agreed to field sobriety tests but struggled, stating, “I’m not going to pass it.”
Riddell was read the Indiana Implied Consent advisory and agreed to a chemical test. He was taken into custody and transported to IU Health Bedford, where blood samples were drawn at 10:38 p.m.
After the blood draw, Riddell was transferred to the Lawrence County Jail on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and OWI endangerment. His car was inventoried and towed from the scene.
This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts by local law enforcement to combat drunk driving and ensure public safety on Bedford’s roads. The Bedford Police Department continues to urge residents to use designated drivers or ride-sharing services if they plan to consume alcohol.
