Woonsocket Police Stop Erratic Driver, Arrest Him For DUI

On July 5, at about 1:22 a.m., Woonsocket Police stopped a gray 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee after observing it operating left of center, ultimately arresting the driver for driving under the influence of alcohol. 

Officer Jason Berthelette arrived on scene, speaking with officer Matthew Bourgoin, who told him that after he pulled over the driver, later identified as Scott Plante, 33, 650 Third Ave., Apt. #3FLR, he suspected he was impaired.

Berthelette spoke with Plante, who told him he'd had a a "good day with his kids" so he'd had a few drinks at Charlie's Place to celebrate. After, he said he'd gotten a coffee and headed home. 

While speaking with Plante, Berthelette noted his actions and mannerisms were delayed. Berthelette also noticed his eyes were bloodshot and glassy. Berthelette led Plante through a series of sobriety tests, which essentially showed the coffee had not canceled out the alcohol.

Plante failed the gaze test, showing a lack of smooth pursuit in both eyes, failed to touch heel to toe during the walk and turn, used his arms for balance and stepped off the line. He also failed the one-leg stand, putting his other foot down. An on-scene blood alcohol test registered a .161.

Plante was arrested and transported to Woonsocket Police Headquarters at 242 Clinton St. His Jeep was towed by Christy's Towing on Cumberland Hill Road. Plante performed two more blood tests, registering a .161 and .159.

Plante was issued a citation for DUI, first offense, blood alcohol greater than .15 percent.