Judge Arrested After Vehicle Hits Road Signs in Emmet County
A longtime federal judge from Michigan is facing misdemeanor drunk driving charges following a fall collision in northern Michigan, authorities confirm. The incident happened in Emmet County, where law enforcement responded after the judge’s vehicle reportedly struck two traffic signs. At the scene, officers observed signs of impairment, and a subsequent blood test showed his blood-alcohol concentration well above the state’s legal limit.
Despite his arrest, the 72-year-old judge has continued serving on the federal bench, and legal proceedings are underway in the local court system.
Highly Elevated Blood Alcohol Content and Field Tests
Police reports indicate that the judge’s blood-alcohol content measured 0.27, more than three times Michigan’s legal limit of 0.08. During roadside interactions, he reportedly had difficulty completing standard sobriety tests and initially denied consuming alcohol, even as officers noted signs of impairment.
According to law enforcement, the judge identified himself and appeared unsteady following the crash, which caused significant vehicle damage and triggered airbag deployment. He was taken into custody and later released on bond.
Charges, Court Dates and Next Steps
The judge has been formally charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated and operating with a high blood-alcohol content — both misdemeanors under Michigan law. His case is scheduled to move forward in Emmet County District Court, with upcoming pretrial and status hearings expected as part of the prosecution’s timeline.
Legal experts note that convictions under such charges can carry fines, license restrictions, and other penalties depending on how the case unfolds. The judge remains in active service while the case proceeds through the judicial process.
