A Paragould driver, Sarah Jean Moncada, has been accused of driving while intoxicated (DWI) with a child in the back seat. According to a probable cause affidavit, Moncada was stopped by police on July 24 after she was observed traveling 84 mph in a posted 60 mph zone.
Charges
Moncada faces several charges, including first-degree endangering the welfare of a minor, a Class D felony, as well as driving while intoxicated, possession of an open alcohol container in a vehicle, refusal to submit to a chemical test, and speeding more than 15 mph over the posted limit.
When officers approached the vehicle, they detected an odor of alcohol and observed that Moncada had slurred speech and bloodshot, watery eyes. An open alcohol container was also found in the center console. After Moncada exited the vehicle, officers reported that the odor of alcohol coming from her was very strong.
Moncada declined a preliminary breath test but participated in field sobriety testing. Police reported observing several clues that indicated impairment during these tests. Moncada was taken to the police station for additional testing but refused to provide a breath sample for blood-alcohol testing.
District Judge Curtis Hitt found probable cause and set Moncada’s bond at $10,000 cash only. Moncada is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Original reporting: NEA Report (Jonesboro) — read the source article.
