A Missouri woman was arrested for driving under the influence of drugs and possession of marijuana following a traffic stop on South Greathouse Drive on May 9th.
According to a report by Atoka Police Patrolman Grady Blackwood, the incident occurred at approximately 3:33 PM. Patrolman Blackwood observed a silver SUV with a Missouri paper tag making unsafe lane changes. He initiated a traffic stop on West 13th Street.
Upon approaching the vehicle, Patrolman Blackwood reported detecting the odor of burnt marijuana. The driver, identified as Janice Nicole Miller of Kansas City, Missouri, was informed of the reason for the stop – the improper lane changes. Miller provided her driver's license and insurance information. The officer also noted a visible ashtray and a rolling tray in the vehicle.
When asked, Miller admitted to having 'a little bit' of marijuana in the car and stated she did not possess a medical marijuana card. A passenger, Jayniece Nicole Whitney, also of Kansas City, Missouri, confirmed she also did not have a medical marijuana card. Miller initially stated she had smoked a blunt an hour or two prior but later denied having any marijuana in the vehicle.
Patrolman Blackwood requested assistance from Atoka Police Officer Christian Shomo to conduct Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) on Miller. During the Lack of Convergence Test, Miller reportedly showed a lack of convergence in both eyes.
On the Modified Romberg Balance Test, she exhibited eyelid tremors and misjudged time. During the Walk and Turn test, Miller showed multiple indicators of impairment, including balance issues, using her arms for balance, failing to touch heel to toe, and making an improper turn. She also showed swaying during the One Leg Stand test.
Based on these observations, Miller was arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs. She consented to a blood test. A subsequent probable cause search of Miller's purse, located in the back seat, allegedly revealed two small bags containing a green leafy substance identified as marijuana. A similar bag of marijuana was reportedly found in Whitney's purse.
Whitney, who showed no signs of impairment and possessed a valid driver's license, was cited for possession of marijuana, and the vehicle was released to her.
Miller was transported to the Atoka County Medical Center for a blood test and then booked into the Atoka County Jail on charges of driving under the influence of drugs, possession of marijuana, and improper lane change.
