CHILLICOTHE, Ohio – A routine patrol led to the arrest of a local man early Sunday morning after he allegedly drove recklessly and refused to identify himself during a traffic stop.
According to police reports, Alexander True approached an officer parked near South Bridge Street and 8th Street, asking for a ride home. When the officer declined, True reportedly made comments about the officer’s presence in the area before walking into a nearby business. The officer noted that True appeared intoxicated, exhibiting signs such as slurred speech, swaying, and repeating himself.
Shortly after, the officer observed True leaving the business, getting into a white 2001 GMC Sonoma, and speeding away. True was seen traveling north on South Paint Street at high speeds, swerving to avoid traffic cones, and making an improper turn onto East Main Street before pulling over near Cross Keys Tavern.
When the officer initiated a traffic stop, True exited his vehicle and began walking toward the tavern. He was ordered to return to the sidewalk and was questioned about his identity. True refused to provide his name and was subsequently placed under arrest for obstructing official business.
During the arrest, the officer detected an odor of alcohol and observed bloodshot eyes, leading to additional charges for operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI). True refused to take a field sobriety test but later admitted to drinking one beer and taking medication that made him feel “like he wasn’t here.”
At the Ross County Jail, True initially declined a urine test but later complied, reportedly struggling with the process. His vehicle was towed, and his urine sample was sent for lab testing.
True, who has a prior OVI conviction from 2022, was cited for OVI and improper turning at an intersection. He was given a mandatory court date at Chillicothe Municipal Court on March 17 at 9 a.m. but refused to sign his citations.
The case remains under investigation.
