BEDFORD—Julius A. Taylor, 73, of Bedford, was arrested on charges related to operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated following a traffic stop and subsequent investigation by the Lawrence County Police Department on Wednesday, September 11. Taylor was also found to have an outstanding warrant in Orange County.
According to LCPD Officer Andrew D. Tillett, the incident began when he was on routine patrol near Casey’s Gas Station at 113 7th Street in Oolitic. While stationary, Officer Tillett noticed Taylor in a blue 2005 Dodge Dakota. A check on Taylor’s information revealed an active warrant out of Orange County. As Officer Tillett awaited confirmation from dispatch, Taylor exited the parking lot and abruptly turned onto Hoosier Avenue.
Officer Tillett attempted to initiate a traffic stop near Dollens Elementary School. Taylor, however, failed to pull over and continued driving for approximately half a mile before stopping at the Oolitic Road flea market. By the time of the stop, LCPD Captain Harrison Fleetwood had arrived to assist.
During the stop, Officer Tillett observed signs of impaired behavior from Taylor, including erratic movements and an inability to sit still. Taylor underwent a Sotoxa test, which screens for multiple drug categories. The results showed a positive reading for methamphetamine but negative results for other drugs tested.
Taylor admitted to using meth the day prior. Despite these admissions, field sobriety tests revealed poor balance, leading Officer Tillett to halt the tests for safety reasons.
Taylor was transported to IU Health Bedford Hospital for medical clearance and a blood draw.
Further investigation showed Taylor did not possess a valid driver’s license, only an Indiana ID card, and had a prior conviction for operating a vehicle with a controlled substance from 2023 in Orange County.
Taylor was transported to the Lawrence County Jail and booked on charges related to operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated with a prior conviction.
The Lawrence County Police Department continues investigating and will coordinate with Orange County authorities regarding the outstanding warrant. Taylor’s case highlights the ongoing efforts by local law enforcement to address impaired driving and ensure public safety.
