Impaired driver repeatedly refuses officer’s orders following traffic stop

46-year-old Steven Johnson was charged with driving under the influence, failure to yield to an emergency vehicle, resisting arrest, driving with a suspended license, and tampering with evidence after repeatedly resisting an officer’s orders during a traffic stop.

On June 25th, Deputy Jordan observed a vehicle failing to maintain a lane of travel on Carthage Hwy in Lebanon. Jordan proceeded to initiate a traffic stop on the vehicle and identified the driver as Steven Johnson. According to the affidavit, Johnson was noted to have a slurred manner of speaking and watery red eyes. Johnson additionally emitted the scent of an alcoholic beverage from his person. The driver then confessed to having consumed alcohol prior to making contact with the officer. Following Johnson’s confession, Jordan requested the man to exit the vehicle.

Steven Johnson (WCSO)
Steven Johnson (WCSO)

Johnson initially complied with the request, but later began to refuse commands given by law enforcement. In order to gain control of the situation, the deputy apprehended Johnson by forcing the man to the ground. Field sobriety tests were unable to be administered due to Johnson’s reported level of intoxication and lack of compliance during the incident.

Further investigation revealed Johnson’s license to be suspended since November of 2011 for failure to provide proof of insurance in Hickman County. In addition, Johnson denied the ability to sign a citation for failure to yield to emergency vehicles, giving rise to the man’s tampering with evidence charge.

Steven Johnson was arrested and charged with driving under the influence, failure to yield to an emergency vehicle, resisting arrest, driving with a suspended license, and tampering with evidence. His bond was set at $2,500.



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