The Lake County Sheriff’s Department has released additional information regarding the ongoing investigation involving an off-duty Cedar Lake police officer arrested on suspicion of operating while intoxicated early Sunday morning.

According to Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr., the incident began at approximately 3:30 a.m. on July 5, when the Cedar Lake Police Department requested assistance from the Lake County Sheriff’s Department after officers encountered one of their own.

The preliminary investigation indicates Cedar Lake officers observed a marked Cedar Lake Police Department squad car being driven without its headlights on. Officers followed the vehicle as it returned to the Cedar Lake Police Department.

After contacting the driver, officers suspected he was intoxicated. The driver allegedly refused a preliminary breath test and was detained in a holding cell. He was identified as Alexander Spencer Powell, an off-duty Cedar Lake police officer.

At the request of the Cedar Lake Police Department, Lake County Sheriff’s deputies responded and assumed the investigation. Powell was taken into custody and transported to the Lake County Jail, where he was booked on a preliminary charge of Operating While Intoxicated. He later posted bond and was released Sunday.

The Sheriff’s Department said the investigation remains active. Results of a blood alcohol test are still pending and could lead to additional charges.

Cedar Lake Police Chief John Gruszka said the alleged conduct is “unacceptable” and does not reflect the values or standards expected of the agency.

“Law Enforcement Officers are held to a higher standard both on and off duty,” the release states. “When that trust is broken, it damages not only our reputation, but also the trust of our community.”

The officer has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of both the criminal investigation and an internal affairs investigation. The department said it is cooperating fully to ensure a thorough and impartial review.

Chief Gruszka acknowledged the community’s expectation for transparency but noted there are legal and procedural limits on what can be released while the investigations remain active.

“If wrongdoing is confirmed, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken,” the chief said.

As with all criminal cases, the charge is merely an accusation, and Powell is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.