Staff Reports
Featured DWI
June 19, 9:12 am
DWI (Second)
Failing to turn without signaling resulted in a Gallup man being arrested and charged with his second DWI.
New Mexico State Police Officer Merlin Benally was on patrol when he saw a silver Chevrolet Impala pull into the parking lot of the Lowe’s Shop-n-Save at 200 Marguerite St. without activating its turn signal. Based on this action, Benally turned to follow the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop.
He met the driver, Tracey Yazzie, who did not have the requested identification on him and reportedly stated that the vehicle’s signal was malfunctioning. As Yazzie spoke, he also reportedly showed signs of intoxication including slurred speech, smelling of alcohol, and bloodshot eyes. Benally noted an open 25-oz can of Bud Light Lime-a-Rita as well.
Yazzie exited the vehicle on command and reportedly said he had consumed an unspecified amount of alcohol the night prior before agreeing to take the Standard Field Sobriety Tests. However, he performed poorly and was placed under arrest.
Benally transported Yazzie to the local state police office for the breath test, where he posted two samples of .05. After the paperwork was completed, Benally then took him to McKinley County Adult Detention Center where he was booked for DWI (second), no signal while turning, driving while license revoked, and open container.
Yazzie’s pretrial hearing is set for July 28.
