VANDERBURGH COUNTY, Ind. — The Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office and Vanderburgh County Fire Department are partnering to strengthen DUI enforcement.
Certified fire department paramedics can now perform evidentiary blood draws during certain impaired-driving investigations, WEVV reported. Deputies may request their assistance when a suspect isn’t being transported to a hospital or when paramedics are already on scene providing medical care.
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“This agreement ensures that impaired driving cases are handled promptly, safely and in accordance with Indiana law, while also sparing motorists from unnecessary trips to the jail or hospital,” Sheriff Noah Robinson said. “By utilizing fire department paramedics who are already on scene, we can minimize delays and reduce disruption for drivers who are being tested under Indiana’s implied consent laws.”
Under the new process, trained fire department paramedics can perform blood draws in a secure setting, such as an ambulance. Fire Chief Adam Farrar said the change reflects strong interagency cooperation.
“This partnership highlights how public safety organizations can work together to provide better service for our community,” Farrar said.
Effective immediately, the agreement aims to streamline enforcement, reduce case delays and minimize unnecessary inconvenience for drivers.
Hennepin Sheriff Dawanna Witt said the change will “embolden criminals” because charges will not be filed if gun or drug crimes are discovered during a low-level stop
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