On July 25, 2026, at 1 a.m. Deputy Michael Bates conducted a traffic stop on a White 2001 Chevrolet Silverado after observing the vehicle drive left of center multiple times as well as failing to yield the right of way to a vehicle while traveling on County Road 350 North and crossing US 41. Upon stopping the vehicle at the Trade Mart located at 502 W Grave Street in Patoka, Deputy Bates identified the driver as 36-year-old Heriberto Gutierrez of Patoka. While speaking with Mr. Guiterrez, Deputy Bates detected multiple clues that the driver was under the influence of alcohol. At that point Deputy Bates began a roadside DUI investigation. Once the inquiry was completed Mr. Guiterrez was taken into custody and transported to the Gibson County Detention Center where he was charged with Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated.
Deputy Bates was assisted in his investigation by Deputy Levi Sims.
All criminal defendants are to be presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
