Billings, Montana – A routine police patrol led to multiple serious charges after an officer stopped to check on a vehicle parked in an unusual location and quickly noticed signs of impairment.
Officer discovers suspected intoxication during alley stop
According to the authorities, the incident happened just after 10 a.m. Tuesday in the 1600 block of Grand Avenue. An officer observed a vehicle stopped in the middle of an alley, an area not meant for parking or extended stops. Concerned about the situation, the officer approached the vehicle and spoke with the driver, who was accompanied by a male passenger.
During the conversation, the officer noted that the driver, Samantha M. Rice, 35, of Billings, appeared to be intoxicated. Based on the officer’s observations and further investigation, Rice was taken into custody at the scene.
Rice was transported to the Butte Detention Center, where she was booked on multiple charges. Authorities said she was jailed for driving under the influence, listed as a fourth or subsequent offense, indicating a history of similar violations. Additional charges included unlawful possession of an open alcoholic beverage container in a vehicle, unlawful possession of marijuana in a vehicle, criminal possession of drug paraphernalia, and a parole violation.
Police did not release details about the male passenger or whether he faces any charges related to the incident.
Authorities continues to remind drivers that impaired driving puts lives at risk and that repeated offenses can lead to severe legal consequences. Officers say routine patrols and welfare checks, like the one that led to this arrest, are an important part of keeping neighborhoods and roadways safe.
