Washington Man Arrested With Bong Mounted on Car Dashboard

Police say the driver had nearly 100 prior arrests.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 4:19pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a bong mounted on a car dashboard, the glass and metal details sharply illuminated by a harsh flash against a dark background, conveying a sense of the illegal and hazardous nature of this vehicle modification.A recent arrest in Washington state exposes the dangerous intersection of legal marijuana and illegal impaired driving.Olympia Today

A Washington state resident was recently arrested after police discovered he had installed a bong on the dashboard of his car. Authorities responded to a pursuit call and found the suspect's abandoned vehicle, later apprehending the driver nearby. The man was booked into Thurston County Jail, as modifying a car to facilitate marijuana use is illegal, even in a state where recreational cannabis is legal.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing impaired driving, even in states that have legalized recreational marijuana. While Washington allows adult use of cannabis, it remains illegal to operate a vehicle under the influence.

The details

According to the report, police found the bong mounted on the dashboard of the suspect's car after responding to a pursuit call. The driver, who had nearly 100 prior arrests, was later apprehended walking down a street near where the vehicle was parked. He was then booked into the Thurston County Jail.

  • The incident occurred days ago near the community of Olympia, Washington.

The players

Washington State Police

The law enforcement agency that responded to the call and arrested the suspect.

Thurston County Jail

The jail where the suspect was booked after his arrest.

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The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder that even in states where recreational marijuana is legal, it is still illegal to operate a vehicle under the influence. Law enforcement continues to face challenges in addressing impaired driving, underscoring the need for public education and enforcement efforts to ensure public safety.