A man was arrested early Sunday morning in Urbana after a traffic stop led to impaired driving charges.
According to the Urbana Police Division, an officer on patrol around 2:12 a.m. on April 26 observed a dark blue 2003 Chevrolet pickup traveling southbound on North Locust Street without headlights or taillights. A traffic stop was initiated at the intersection of North Locust Street and Lafayette Avenue.
Police identified the driver as Devin McNeely. A passenger in the vehicle reportedly told officers she had tried to warn McNeely that the lights were off.
While speaking with McNeely, the officer reported detecting a strong odor of alcohol and observing bloodshot, glossy eyes. McNeely initially denied drinking but later admitted to having consumed alcohol about an hour prior.
Officers conducted standardized field sobriety tests, during which police say McNeely showed multiple signs of impairment and struggled to maintain balance. During the tests, McNeely reportedly stated, “I’m not sober, but I’m not drunk.”
McNeely was taken into custody and charged with operating a vehicle while impaired (OVI).
A search of the vehicle following the arrest revealed multiple open alcohol containers, including partially consumed beverages that were still cold to the touch, according to police.
McNeely was transported to the Urbana Police Division, where he was asked to submit to a breath test but refused.
He was later released to a sober driver after being issued citations.
McNeely is charged with OVI, driving without headlights, and open container. Police noted he has a prior OVI conviction from 2023.
