Case Summary
The Complaint alleged that on March 31, 2014, Judge Joseph P. Hettel drove a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol; and while driving under the influence of alcohol on that date, he collided into a parked vehicle, causing significant damage to both vehicles and a nearby utility pole. The Complaint also alleged that at the scene of the accident, Judge Hettel refused to take any field sobriety tests; and he was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. Thereafter, the Complaint alleged that Judge Hettel was taken to the Ottawa Police Station, where he refused to take a breathalyzer test and also refused to provide a blood or urine sample. Judge Hettel was subsequently issued citations for driving under the influence of alcohol, failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident, using an electronic communication device while operating a motor vehicle, and improper lane usage.