Missoula DUI: From Courthouse Drama to Traffic Showdown
Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On October 17, 2024, 66-year-old Kerry Maclane was involved in a motor vehicle crash that resulted in an investigation into the circumstances of the incident by the Montana Highway Patrol. As part of his investigation, a MHP Seargent sought information from Maclane who ultimately agreed to speak at the Missoula County Courthouse when he appeared on October 23, 2024.
Maclane and the Seargent appeared as scheduled at the Missoula Courthouse. The Seargent observed a smell of alcohol coming from Maclane’s person. Maclane then refused to have a conversation with the Seargent and left the courthouse. The Seargent observed Maclane leave the courthouse, get into a white Dodge Grand Caravan, drive away, and run a stop sign.
The Seargent then got into his patrol vehicle and tried to catch up to Maclane. Because of the October 17 incident, the Seargent was aware that Maclane’s license was suspended. The Seargent executed a traffic stop and Maclane was extremely argumentative. Again, the Seargent observed a strong odor of alcoholic beverage coming from Maclane.
The Seargent asked Maclane to step out of the vehicle, but Maclane refused. Then the Seargent told Maclane this was a lawful order, but Maclane continued to refuse, requiring the Seargent to have to remove Maclane from the vehicle.
When a trooper arrived to assist, he also observed several indications of impairment. He observed an overwhelming odor of alcohol coming from Maclane’s breath, red bloodshot eyes, and occasionally slurred speech. According to court documents, Maclane also admitted to consuming half of a pint of whiskey.
The trooper asked Maclane to walk towards the front of his patrol vehicle so a pat search could occur. Maclane said, “No, I don’t think so.” Maclane tensed up and became uncooperative during the pat search. Because Maclane was continually uncooperative, the Seargent and trooper worked together to place him in handcuffs.
READ MORE: Missoula News – Crime Reports
Maclane was placed under arrest for DUI and was taken to the Missoula County Detention Center. Once at the jail, Maclane again became overly animated when staff attempted to search him. Maclane then refused to provide a breath sample. The trooper applied for, and was granted, a search warrant for Maclane’s blood, and a blood draw occurred.
Maclane has three prior convictions for DUI. He is currently being charged with felony DUI, driving with a suspended license, failure to carry insurance, failure to stop at a stop sign, and obstructing a peace officer. His bond was set at $50,000.
The information in this article was obtained from sources that are publicly viewable.
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