Colorado Driver Confesses to Three Children Hidden in Trunk During DUI Stop
In a deeply unsettling incident captured on police body camera, a suspected drunk driver in Westminster, Colorado, confessed to having three children stashed in the trunk of his vehicle during a traffic stop. The footage, released by the Westminster Police Department, documents the alarming events of January 23, which began with reports of reckless driving.
Reckless Driving Leads to Disturbing Discovery
The traffic stop was initiated after an officer observed a vehicle operating dangerously near City Center Drive and 93rd Avenue. Upon approaching the car, the officer immediately detected the strong odor of alcohol emanating from within. Despite this, the driver firmly denied consuming any alcoholic beverages, attributing the smell to nicotine pouches, a claim met with scepticism by law enforcement.
The driver initially agreed to participate in voluntary roadside sobriety tests but abruptly reversed his decision moments later. This prompted officers to place him in handcuffs, at which point he made the shocking admission regarding the children in his trunk.
Chilling Confession and Subsequent Arrest
"So you have three kids hiding in the trunk?" the officer inquired, to which the suspect affirmatively replied. The body camera video then captures the moment another officer opened the trunk, discovering the three children inside. "What are you guys doing?" the officer can be heard asking them.
The driver, whose identity has not been disclosed, was arrested on multiple charges, including:
- Suspicion of driving under the influence
- Reckless driving
- Failure to provide valid insurance
- Three counts of child abuse
Several bottles of alcohol were subsequently found inside the vehicle, contradicting the driver's earlier statements.
Aftermath and Official Response
Following the arrest, the driver was transported to Adams County Jail. Child Protective Services were immediately notified and responded to the scene. Authorities confirmed that the children were safely released to family members, though the relationship between the driver and the children, as well as the circumstances leading to their concealment, remains unclear.
The Westminster Police Department has released the body camera footage to the public, highlighting the grave risks associated with impaired driving and child endangerment. The officer wearing the camera is heard questioning the driver's judgment, asking, "You didn't think that would have been a good idea to say something before?"
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical role law enforcement plays in community safety and the severe consequences of driving under the influence. The investigation is ongoing, with further details anticipated as authorities continue their inquiries.
