INDIANAPOLIS — An off-duty IMPD officer was arrested early Sunday for allegedly driving under the influence.
James Cox was formally charged Oct. 6 with operating a vehicle while intoxicated endangering a person and operating a vehicle with an alcohol concentration equivalent to at least .08 but less than .15, according to online court records.
In a statement, the department said that around 2:15 a.m. Oct. 6, an officer saw a car speeding on Southeastern Avenue and swerving into oncoming traffic to pass a car. That car was pulled over in the 5300 block of Southeastern Avenue, near Emerson Avenue, and Cox was found to be driving.
IMPD Special Investigations Unit detectives were called to assist in the investigation.
"The officer detected the smell of alcohol and conducted field sobriety tests, which Cox failed," the department said in a statement. "He was subsequently taken to the Community Justice Center for a certified breath test and arrested for operating a vehicle while intoxicated and for endangering a passenger under 18."
Cox's child, who is under 18, was in the car at the time. They were released to a family member.
"This incident is deeply troubling and does not reflect the high standards we hold ourselves to at IMPD," IMPD Chief Chris Bailey said in a statement. "We expect our officers to uphold the law, both on and off duty. While our officers work to protect this community, the poor judgment of one individual should not overshadow their commitment to public safety. We are grateful that no one was injured."
Cox was placed on administrative leave and "does not have any law enforcement powers at this time," IMPD said Monday.
Online court records indicate Cox has an initial hearing scheduled for 9 a.m. Oct. 22.