Gonzales, Louisiana - A Louisiana State Representative is facing charges of driving while intoxicated (DWI) and improper lane use following a traffic stop on July 26, 2024. Kendricks 'Ken' Brass, 47, of Vacherie, Louisiana, was arrested and charged after a Louisiana State Police Trooper observed his 2018 GMC Yukon swerving in and out of its lane on LA 44 near Interstate 10 in Ascension Parish.
The trooper, who was on patrol shortly after midnight, suspected impairment and conducted a series of standardized field sobriety tests on Brass. After failing the tests, Brass was placed under arrest and transported to the Gonzales Police Department, where he consented to a chemical breath test. The test revealed that Brass's blood alcohol content was above the legal limit.
Brass was subsequently charged with LRS 14:98 – Operating a vehicle while intoxicated and LRS 32:79 – Driving on roadway laned for traffic. He was fingerprinted at the Ascension Parish Sheriff's Office District 2 Substation and released on a summons.
The Louisiana State Police are using this incident to remind motorists of the dangers of impaired driving. According to the police, alcohol can impair visual ability, alter the sense of time and space, impair fine motor skills, and decrease reaction times. Even one drink can impair a person's ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.
The police urge everyone to plan ahead when consuming alcohol, designating a sober driver, or using alternative transportation. They also emphasize the importance of buckling up and not driving or riding with an impaired driver.
An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.