CT Man Faces Narcotics Charges After Sleeping Behind the Wheel

According to a press release from CT State Police, a Vernon man was arrested on multiple charges, including operating under the influence (OUI) and narcotics possession, after being found asleep behind the wheel in Tolland on February 9, 2025.

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According to police reports, at approximately 11:00 AM, Troopers from Troop C - Tolland responded to a report of a man unconscious in his vehicle. The call described a Jetta stopped in the right-turn-only lane at the intersection of I-84 East and Route 195. The vehicle had been sitting at a green light for several minutes, according to witnesses. When Troopers arrived, they say they found the car still stopped at the green light with the driver unresponsive behind the wheel.

After attempting to wake the driver, identified as Michael Tobin, a 66-year-old from Vernon, Troopers noticed a white powdery substance around his nostril. Authorities suspected that Tobin was under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The vehicle was turned off, and the keys were removed from the ignition. Despite this, Tobin allegedly tried to shift the car into drive and accelerate, but the engine was already off.

Tobin was asked to perform a field sobriety test, but he reportedly could not finish them. Tobin was arrested and taken to Troop C for processing. During a search, authorities discovered five bags of suspected narcotics on his person.

Tobin now faces multiple charges and was unable to post his $5,000 bond.

Charges:

• C.G.S 14-227a - Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol and/or Drugs
• C.G.S. 14-299 - Violation of Traffic Control Signals
• C.G.S. 21a-279(a)(1) - Possession of Controlled Substance
• C.G.S. 53a-167a - Interfering with an Officer

My knowledge of what's going on, on the "skreets" is limited these days but last I checked white powdery substances snorted into the nose are supposed to keep you alert as a MF'er. There is a lot to ponder here so I'll just throw T's - Thoughts and P's - Prayers, out to everyone involved. This is a best wish for your future situation.