JUST THE FACTS

December 19, 2025 Volume 16 Issue 51

THIS WEEK'S IN CUSTODY ARRESTS

Rueben Rodriguez Jr. was formally charged with burglary in the 1st degree stemming from an incident on February 11th. The incident location was at an ex's address of Rodriguez Jr.
Tre Mesagna was formally charged with domestic assault- felony, stemming from an incident on December 16th in the 200 block of Rose St. E.
Maksim Nestsiarenka was formally charged with 3rd degree DWI test refusal stemming from a suspicious person complaint. Officers were dispatched to a report of a semi-truck driver who was acting strange and erratic. The driver appeared intoxicated and a bottle of Jameson was located outside his truck according to the reporting person. The truck was running, and the driver was asleep behind the wheel. Nestsiarenka displayed balance issues, slurred speech, and odor of alcohol coming from his person. He declined any field sobriety tests and refused testing at the detention center.
Garrett LaPlount was formally charged with 3rd degree DWI stemming from a welfare check at McDonald's. It was reported that someone was passed out in the drive through lane at 1:43 am on December 19th. Officers made contact with LaPlount and eventually got him to wake up. He admitted to drinking Busch Light an hour and a half prior to the incident. He displayed bloodshot, watery eyes and odor of alcohol coming from his person. He appeared confused at times. LaPlount submitted to a breath test with reported value of 0.21 BAC (almost three times the legal limit).

THERE IS TIME LEFT

Less than a week left to get some goodies from the giving tree in the police department lobby. There are several items still available, and it is our goal that they are all gone by the time we close the lobby on Wednesday.

Winter Travel Reminders

With winter weather fully underway, road conditions require drivers to be alert, use extra caution and be patient. The tips below are crucial to ensuring every driver, passenger, pedestrian, and dedicated emergency responder makes it home.

Pre-Travel and Winter Planning

Check 511 Before You Go: Use 511 to view real-time conditions. Check the cameras for snow cover, traffic backups or vehicles in the ditch.
Carry items and supplies in your vehicle for winter driving-related tasks and in case of emergency, including:
- a snow shovel, broom and ice scraper
- abrasive material (sand or kitty litter), in case your vehicle gets stuck in the snow
- jumper cables, flashlight and warning devices (flares and emergency markers)
- first aid kit, including tourniquet; blankets for protection from the cold
- cell phone and charger, water, food, and any necessary medicine
Allow Extra Time: Allow for extra travel time. This ensures you can reach your destination safely without rushing.
Increase Following Distance: Increase the distance between your vehicle and the one ahead. Stopping on snow and ice takes much longer.

Be Patient, Be Alert, Slow Down and “Move Over”

When approaching flashing lights, crews, or a vehicle on the shoulder or in the ditch:

Move Over for Everyone: The "Move Over" law applies not just to emergency vehicles but also to tow trucks, maintenance crews and disabled vehicles.
Give Space to Plows: Snowplows are critical to keeping our roads safe. Be patient, slow down and move over to give them room to work.
Slow Down Carefully: If you see a vehicle in the ditch, assume the roads are slippery. Slow down gradually and early to avoid sudden braking.
Focus on your Path of Travel: Avoid "gawking" at incidents. Drivers tend to steer in the direction they look, which can pull the vehicle toward the scene or people standing outside the vehicle.

Pedestrian Safety

Be Visible: If you are walking (especially with pets) in snowy or icy conditions, wear bright colors or reflective gear.
Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings, as drivers may have reduced visibility and difficulty stopping.

Please be patient and allow extra time this winter to ensure everyone gets to their destination safely!