Off-Duty and Drunk Police Officer in Wauwatosa Charged with Drunk Driving After Crash Involving Child
An off-duty and drunk police officer in Wauwatosa is facing charges for drunk driving after being involved in a collision with a child last month at a Waupun gas station and it’s not his first OWI offense, having faced a similar charge in 2012 during his tenure with the Fond du Lac Police Department.
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Wauwatosa Drunk Police Officer Charged After Off-Duty Incident: Allegedly Drives Under Influence, Injures Child in Crash
Charges have been filed against Sgt. Kyle Strands, a Wauwatosa Police Officer, following a recent incident where he was off-duty and allegedly drove under the influence. According to TMJ4, the incident regarding the drunk police officer occurred last month at a Waupun gas station, where Sgt. Strands was involved in a collision. Reports reveal that an 11-year-old child ran in front of his car, resulting in a fractured wrist. Strands’ own six-year-old child was also in the vehicle at the time.
During the investigation, authorities noted signs of potential impairment, including the smell of alcohol on Strands’ breath. The drunk police officer struggled with a basic sobriety test and declined a breathalyzer on the scene. However, a subsequent blood test indicated a blood alcohol content of .236, almost three times the legal limit. Open containers with alcohol were discovered in the car.
Repeat Offense: Drunk Police Officer Faces Second OWI Charge; Wauwatosa PD Stresses Accountability and Transparency in Response
This is not the first time Sgt. Strands has faced an OWI charge. In 2012, the drunk police officer faced a similar charge while working for the Fond du Lac Police Department, resulting in his resignation. In Wisconsin, a first OWI offense is removed from a person’s record after ten years if there are no further violations.
The Wauwatosa Police Department expressed regret about the incident and highlighted their commitment to upholding professionalism and accountability. The drunk police officer has been placed on administrative suspension with pay as both internal and criminal investigations take place. The department emphasized their dedication to transparency throughout the process, aiming to regain the community’s trust. Further updates are expected as the case unfolds.