Fairfield (NJ) The Fairfield Police Department announces the arrest of Chelsea Vankerschaver (30) of Wayne, N.J. for driving under the influence on June 3, 2021. On that date, at approximately 4:37 PM, a concerned motorist contacted the Fairfield Police Department reporting that they were behind a 2018 blue Lexus that was traveling east on Route 46 near Clinton Road that was all over the road. The information was broadcast to units in the field and the vehicle was spotted by officers as it continued on Route 46 East.
It is alleged that, prior to being stopped, the vehicle swerved out of the left lane and across the left shoulder line and almost onto the median. It then swerved back and almost struck a vehicle traveling in the right lane. It was eventually stopped and found to be operated by Vankerschaver. It is alleged that, during the stop, she displayed signs and symptoms consistent with someone being under the influence of an alcoholic beverage to include, slow and slurred speech, slow hand movements, she appeared to be confused and could not readily produce her driving credentials and was fumbling through her wallet. In addition, there was a slight odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from her breath. It is further alleged that small empty bottles of wine were observed, in plain view, on the front passenger floor.
Filed sobriety tests were administered and based upon their results, and the totality of the circumstances, Vankerschaver was placed under arrest and her vehicle impounded pursuant to New Jersey law. She was transported to police headquarters for processing and breath testing. While at headquarters, it is alleged that the results of the breath test indicated that Vankerschaver’s blood alcohol concentration was over three times the legal limit.
In addition to being charged with driving under the influence, she was also charged with failing to maintain a lane, careless and reckless driving and having an open container of an alcoholic beverage in a motor vehicle. She was released on her own recognizance pending an appearance in the Fairfield Municipal Court.
(It should be noted that the charges against Vankerschaver are merely allegations and that she is presumed innocent until she either pleads guilty or is found guilty in a court of law)
Authorized by: Chief Anthony Manna
