DOVER – A local man was arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) after a traffic stop in the early hours of New Year’s Day, according to the Dover Police Department.
At approximately 4:17 a.m. on January 1, 2025, Dover Township Police Officer German Liranzo, stationed at a traffic light at Mount Hope Avenue and US Route 46 intersection, observed a blue Nissan Sentra making an improper left turn. The vehicle, later found to be operated by Carlos A. Molina, 25, Ledgewood, reportedly had a loud muffler and was tailgating another vehicle. As the driver continued, officers noted erratic behavior, including revving the engine and inconsistent braking.
After following the vehicle, police initiated a traffic stop at Maple Avenue and Oak Street. Upon being asked for his documents, Molina allegedly struggled to locate his insurance information, initially opening a Capital One Bank app instead of his State Farm insurance app.
During the interaction, officers detected bloodshot and watery eyes and a strong odor of alcohol from within the vehicle. When asked to step out of the car, Molina sprayed cologne on himself, prompting further suspicion. He admitted to having two shots of tequila at a family event earlier in the night.
Failed Sobriety Tests Lead to Arrest
Molina was asked to perform a series of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) on a level surface. According to the report:
- During the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, Molina lacked smooth pursuit and moved his head rather than following the officer’s pen with just his eyes.
- During the Walk and Turn test, he failed to maintain balance, took an incorrect number of steps, and stepped off the line.
- During the One Leg Stand test, he failed to follow instructions, put his foot down multiple times, and stopped before being instructed to do so.
Following these tests, Molina was placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated. He was handcuffed, advised of his Miranda rights in Spanish, and transported to Dover Police Headquarters for processing.
Breath Test Confirms Intoxication
At headquarters, Molina was provided with the Standard Statement form in Spanish and agreed to provide breath samples. Due to an equipment issue at the Dover Police Department, he was transported to the Randolph Police Department, where he submitted two breath samples into an Alcotest machine.
The results revealed a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .15%, nearly double the legal limit of 0.08% in New Jersey.
Molina was issued the following summons:
•Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) – N.J.S.A. 39:4-50
•Following too Close – N.J.S.A. 39:4-89
Molina was later released into the custody of a friend who signed a responsible party form. Molina was issued multiple summonses and is scheduled to appear in court on January 27, 2025.
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.
