HANOVER – On October 30, 2024, at approximately 11:17 p.m., Sgt. Dominic Kaiser observed a white Mazda tailgating another vehicle on Route 10 West near North Jefferson Road. The vehicle was also operating without illuminated front or rear lights. A motor vehicle stop was initiated, leading to the arrest of the driver, Marcos Espinosa, 27, of Dover, for driving under the influence and other violations.
Upon approach, Sgt. Kaiser detected a strong odor of burnt marijuana and alcohol coming from the vehicle. Espinosa exhibited signs of impairment, including slurred speech, fumbling with his phone, and admitting to recently smoking marijuana. Field sobriety tests were conducted, during which Espinosa showed a lack of coordination and failed to perform the tests as instructed. He was subsequently placed under arrest.
During processing, Espinosa refused to provide breath samples despite being read the DWI Standard Statement in both English and Spanish. He became belligerent at headquarters, asserting that he was under the influence of marijuana, not alcohol. He was later released to a friend who signed a liability waiver, and his vehicle was towed by Butch’s Towing.
Espinosa was issued the following motor vehicle complaints and given a court date of December 2, 2024, at 1:00 p.m.:
•39:4-50.2 – Refusal to Submit to Chemical Tests
•39:4-96 – Reckless Driving
•39:4-50 – Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
•39:3-66 – Maintenance of Lamps
•39:4-50.2 – Consent to Take Breath Samples
•39:4-89 – Following Too Closely
The Hanover Police Department noted that body-worn camera footage of the incident is available for review. The vehicle was towed by Butch’s towing.
Editors Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
