Off-Duty IMPD Officer Arrested for Drunk Driving With Child in Car

Source: WISH-TV

INDIANAPOLIS–An Indianapolis police officer arrested over the weekend for drunk driving with his child in the vehicle is now on administrative leave.

Court documents say 35-year-old James Cox is charged with two counts of operating while intoxicated.

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“On Sunday, October 6, 2024, around 2:20 a.m., an IMPD officer observed a vehicle speeding on Southeastern Avenue, swerving into oncoming traffic to overtake another vehicle. A traffic stop was initiated in the 5300 block of Southeastern Avenue, revealing the driver to be off-duty, IMPD Officer James Cox,” said IMPD Public Affairs in a Monday afternoon news release.

IMPD says the officer who pulled Cox over and smelled alcohol. The officer says Cox then failed some field sobriety tests.

“He was subsequently taken to the Community Justice Center for a certified breath test and arrested for operating a vehicle while intoxicated and for endangering a passenger under 18. Cox’s child was released to a family member,” the release continued. 

His initial court hearing is October 22.

Cox was placed on administrative leave. He was also charged in 2021 for domestic battery and has previously been suspended.

“This incident is deeply troubling and does not reflect the high standards we hold ourselves to at IMPD,” said Chief Chris Bailey. “We expect our officers to uphold the law, both on and off duty. While our officers work to protect this community, the poor judgment of one individual should not overshadow their commitment to public safety. We are grateful that no one was injured,” he added.