A Minden man was arrested on multiple charges Christmas Day after police observed his vehicle in a ditch near Crichton Street and Morrow Street.
According to the Minden Police Department, an officer responding to a separate incident encountered a white truck attempting to drive out of the ditch. The driver, later identified as Gregory Wayne Cato, 63, complied with the officer’s instruction to stop the vehicle and turn it off.
Cato reportedly told the officer he was trying to back into his driveway across the street when his vehicle ended up in the ditch. When asked to exit the truck and provide identification, Cato stumbled and had to brace himself on the truck door multiple times.
During the interaction, Cato placed his hands in his pockets and was subsequently patted down for officer safety. A small container of alcohol was found in his possession. Officers noted that Cato appeared unsteady on his feet, slurred his words, and repeated himself.
As officers attempted to detain him for safety reasons, Cato initially resisted, pulling his arm away from the officer. He was placed against the truck and eventually complied, allowing officers to secure him in handcuffs.
Cato’s vehicle was towed, and he was transported to the Minden Police Department for standardized field sobriety tests (SFSTs). Authorities stated that Cato refused to undergo the tests or submit to a breathalyzer test.
Further investigation revealed Cato had two active bench warrants through the Minden Police Department. He was booked on charges of resisting an officer, driving while intoxicated, open container, careless operation of a motor vehicle, and the two outstanding warrants.
This incident highlights the ongoing efforts of local law enforcement to maintain road safety and address impaired driving.
All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.