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Bedford Today
By the People, for the People
Bedford man with prior OWI convictions arrested after erratic driving
Austin Jovanovich faces multiple charges after failing field sobriety tests and registering a blood alcohol content over twice the legal limit.
Apr. 1, 2026 at 1:36pm
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A 26-year-old Bedford, Indiana man with a history of impaired driving convictions was arrested on March 28, 2026 for operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) after Bedford Police officers observed him exhibiting suspicious behavior and erratic driving. Austin Jovanovich was charged with OWI with a prior conviction, OWI endangerment, and violating the conditions of his hardship driving license after failing field sobriety tests and registering a blood alcohol content of 0.200, more than double the legal limit.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of repeat OWI offenders and the need for stricter enforcement and monitoring to prevent drunk driving and protect public safety. Bedford has seen a rise in impaired driving incidents in recent years, with this case adding to concerns about the effectiveness of hardship license programs and the ability of the justice system to deter habitual drunk drivers.
The details
According to the police affidavit, the incident began when Bedford Police Captain Emmons observed Jovanovich entering a vehicle in a parking lot and then refusing to move until the officer's patrol car had left the area. Suspicious of this 'avoidant behavior', the officer followed the vehicle and witnessed it make an unsignaled turn and exhibit 'sudden jerky movements' on the road. Jovanovich was eventually pulled over at a gas station, where officers noted he was unsteady on his feet, had bloodshot eyes, and smelled of alcohol. After initially denying drinking, Jovanovich admitted to having three beers at local bars. He failed field sobriety tests and a preliminary breath test registered a 0.191 blood alcohol content. A later certified test at the police station showed a 0.200 BAC, two and a half times the legal limit of 0.08.
- On March 28, 2026, Bedford Police officers observed Austin Jovanovich's suspicious behavior and erratic driving.
- Jovanovich was pulled over and arrested at a gas station on 16th Street in Bedford.
The players
Austin Jovanovich
A 26-year-old Bedford, Indiana resident with two prior OWI convictions who was arrested for operating a vehicle while intoxicated with a blood alcohol content more than twice the legal limit.
Captain Emmons
A Bedford Police officer who initially observed Jovanovich's suspicious behavior and initiated the traffic stop that led to his arrest.
Officer Sarah Haluda
The Bedford Police officer who conducted the field sobriety tests that Jovanovich failed.
What’s next
Jovanovich will face a judge who will determine whether to allow him out on bail pending trial for the multiple OWI charges.
The takeaway
This case highlights the ongoing challenge of repeat OWI offenders in Bedford and the need for stronger enforcement and monitoring to prevent drunk driving and protect public safety on local roads. The justice system will have to weigh the appropriate balance between rehabilitation and public protection in determining Jovanovich's fate.
