An Illinois man is facing an OWI charge after Wisconsin State Patrol says he was driving under the influence with two young children in his vehicle early Sunday morning in Eau Claire County.
Troopers say 33-year-old Jordan Ellsworth of South Beloit, Illinois, was stopped for speeding on southbound Highway 53 at Clairemont Avenue around 2 a.m.
During the stop, troopers reported smelling burnt marijuana and observing signs of impairment. Investigators say a search of the vehicle uncovered several THC-related items, and Ellsworth was arrested on suspicion of first-offense operating while intoxicated with two children under the age of 16 in the vehicle.
The children were released to a responsible party at the scene. Ellsworth was taken to a local hospital for a blood test.
As with all criminal cases, the charge is an allegation, and Ellsworth is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
