Nicotine fit leads to 2 DUIs in 2 hours (and a driving while suspended)

Columbus, OH

Finally, definitive scientific proof that cigarettes are addictive and alcohol intoxication causes impaired judgment.

A Pataskala man's nicotine fit left him with back-to-back busts on drunken-driving charges.

Kenneth L. Stamper was cited for operating a vehicle under the influence after a Pataskala officer saw his car weaving on Broad Street about 10:30 p.m. Sunday.

Stamper's blood-alcohol level tested at 0.16 percent — twice the 0.08 percent level at which a motorist is presumed intoxicated in Ohio. His car was impounded and his driver's license immediately suspended. Stamper, 49, was freed on his own recognizance, and an officer gave him a ride home.

Then, clerks at a United Dairy Farmers called police about 12:30 a.m.. A man was creating a ruckus after learning the store did not have his brand of smokes. It was Mr. Stamper — again. He had driven a second car to the convenience store. Police again charged Stamper with DUI. This time, he tested at 0.13 percent. Cops tacked on a charge of driving under an administrative license suspension. More >>