Bedford man arrested for OWI after admitting impairment

Alexander Chavez English, 34, charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated and OWI endangerment

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A late-night traffic stop in Bedford, Indiana led to the arrest of Alexander Chavez English, 34, on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and OWI endangerment. English allegedly admitted to officers that he was too impaired to drive safely, having consumed alcohol and marijuana earlier in the evening.

Why it matters

Impaired driving continues to be a major public safety concern, with incidents of drunk and drugged driving leading to injuries and fatalities on roads across the country. This case highlights the importance of law enforcement vigilance and the need for ongoing education and enforcement efforts to address the issue.

The details

According to the police report, officers observed English's SUV traveling erratically and failing to turn on the vehicle's headlights. During the traffic stop, officers detected the smell of marijuana and noted that English had slurred speech and glassy eyes. English initially denied having marijuana but later admitted to smoking it earlier. He also spontaneously told officers that he had consumed alcohol, including Long Island iced teas and Modelo beers, and that he had told his passenger to be quiet because he 'needed to focus on his driving' due to his impairment. A search of the vehicle uncovered a metallic tray with marijuana in the center console.

  • The incident occurred around 2:00 a.m. on February 7, 2026.
  • English was arrested and transported to IU Health Bedford, where blood samples were drawn for toxicology testing before he was booked into the Lawrence County Jail.

The players

Alexander Chavez English

A 34-year-old Bedford resident who was arrested on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and OWI endangerment.

Officer Michael Bell

A Bedford Police Department officer who observed English's vehicle traveling erratically and initiated the traffic stop.

Officer Haluda

A Bedford Police Department officer who administered the standardized field sobriety tests and documented English's admissions of impairment.

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What they’re saying

“I likely wouldn't have passed the sobriety tests even if I were sober.”

— Alexander Chavez English (wbiw.com)

What’s next

The judge will determine whether to allow English to be released on bail at a hearing scheduled for February 21, 2026.

The takeaway

This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of law enforcement efforts to identify and apprehend those who choose to operate vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The candid admissions made by English during the traffic stop highlight the need for continued public education and awareness campaigns to address this persistent public safety issue.