BEDFORD– A Bedford woman was arrested early Monday morning on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI), OWI endangerment, OWI controlled substance, and neglect of a dependent, following a near-collision and subsequent investigation by the Bedford Police Department.
According to Officer Joshua Turner’s probable cause affidavit, the incident began around 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, April 1. Officer Turner was on patrol when he observed a gray Dodge Durango, driven by 31-year-old Shawna M. Vincz, make a right-hand turn into the path of another vehicle, causing the other driver to brake abruptly to avoid a collision. The Durango had its hazard lights flashing instead of turn signals.
During the traffic stop, Vincz displayed signs of impairment, including slurred speech and an admission to “a little bit of inebriation.” Officer Turner also detected the odor of alcohol and observed that Vincz’s eyes were glossy and bloodshot. Vincz agreed to perform Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs), during which she exhibited several indicators of impairment.
After being read her Miranda rights, Vincz requested a lawyer and declined to answer further questions. She did, however, consent to a chemical blood test conducted at IU Health Bedford.
Further investigation revealed that Vincz had left her 11-year-old and 5-year-old children unsupervised in a hotel room at the Super 8 Motel. Vincz initially stated a friend was in an adjoining room and the youngest child was with their grandfather in another room, but officers confirmed the children were alone. Vincz was allowed to call their grandfather to take custody of the children, and a report was filed with the Department of Child Services.
During an inventory of Vincz’s vehicle, officers found two half-empty bottles of alcoholic beverages under the driver’s seat.
Vincz was transported to the Lawrence County Security Center. She faces multiple charges, including OWI, OWI endangerment, OWI controlled substance, and neglect of a dependent.
Those facing criminal charges are considered innocent unless convicted through due legal proceedings. Accusations alone do not imply guilt; the judicial system will evaluate the presented evidence to reach a verdict.
.png)
.JPG)
