Police: Macomb County woman fell asleep standing up during roadside sobriety check

Investigators found dozens of prescription pills in her purse

A Macomb County female motorist was so intoxicated when she was stopped by Troy police last week, she nearly fell asleep standing up while performing roadside sobriety tests, according to police.

Authorities said the 55-year-old Eastpointe also had dozens of pills in her purse when officers conducted a search of her belongings.

The incident happened around 7:30 p.m. on March 25 when officers were dispatched to the area of Square Lake and Crooks roads to respond to reports of a driver possibly being under the influence. A 911 caller reported the driver had been stopped at a green traffic signal for three full cycles.

According to police, authorities conducted a traffic stop on the woman’s Ford Eco after they witnessed the vehicle swerving in traffic and failing to maintain a single lane.

“Officers made contact with the driver, who stated multiple times she was very tired,” Troy police said in a statement. “Upon being asked, the driver admitted to taking Norco (a prescription pain reliever) approximately two hours prior to driving.”

Police said the woman’s speech was slurred and her eyes were glassy and watery. The driver was asked to perform several sobriety evaluations, which she did, but officers noted she performed poorly.

“Additional sobriety evaluations could not be attempted due to the driver being too unsteady on her feet and falling asleep while standing,” police said.

The woman was arrested and transported to the Troy Police lock-up facility. During a search there, officers located three loose pills in her left pants pocket. The pills were identified as an acetaminophen and hydrocodone bitartrate and two BAC 20 baclofen pills.

Police also found a pill container with 22 miscellaneous pills in her purse.

The driver was transported to Royal Oak Beaumont Hospital where blood was drawn by medical personnel. She was released to the hospital for further medical care due to her intoxicated state.

The woman, whose name has not been released, was charged with operating while under the influence of narcotics and possession of narcotics.

A 911 caller reported the driver had been stopped at a green traffic signal for three full cycles.