Jonathan Claude Woods, 25, of DeMotte, is facing charges after police say he was speeding and driving while intoxicated in Portage.
According to court documents, on April 14, 2026, at approximately 12:42 AM, officers observed a gray Ford Escape near the area of Mulberry and Monnier in Portage. Police say the vehicle was traveling 82 mph in a posted 35 mph zone, weaving from side to side, Officers also reported that Woods admitted he was engaged in a speed contest with another vehicle.
While patrolling northbound on Willowcreek Road at Central Avenue, an officer’s radar clocked the vehicle traveling southbound at 82 mph in a posted 35 mph zone while passing a Chevrolet Malibu. During the traffic stop, Woods stated the Malibu driver had “tempted” him into engaging in a street race by revving his engine.
Police reported observing signs of intoxication, including bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, and unsteady balance. Field sobriety tests were administered, and a preliminary breath test showed a result of 0.176. A certified chemical test later showed Woods had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.172. Officers also noted alcoholic beverage containers were in plain view inside the vehicle.
Court documents state Woods was advised of Indiana’s implied consent law and was taken into custody.
Lodged in the Porter County Jail.
Charges filed April 14,2026:
• Operating While Intoxicated Endangering a Person, Class A Misdemeanor
• Operating a Vehicle With an Alcohol Concentration of 0.15% or More, Class A Misdemeanor
• Operating While Intoxicated, Class C Misdemeanor
• Speed Contest on Highways or Streets, Class C Misdemeanor
