The Leeds Police Department arrested a man Wednesday after he allegedly drove through a school playground and walking track while impaired.
There were 81 students in the area at Leeds Elementary School when a school resource officer (SRO) spotted a vehicle driving through an employee-only parking lot. The officer attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver refused.
He drove through the walking track and playground area and the SRO called for backup. The vehicle eventually stopped.
The driver, Cody Derek Smith, 37, of Cullman, was arrested.
Smith is charged with 81 counts of reckless endangerment, driving under the influence of alcohol, second-degree criminal trespass and disorderly conduct.
"I am very proud of the actions of our School Resource Officer, Patrol Officers and Investigators," stated Chief Paul Irwin. "They responded immediately to this threat and eliminated it! This is an example of why SROs are necessary in every school system. They are there to protect children and build relationships so they have someone they can count on and know that we are here for them. These relationships flourish in our community and I am proud of their efforts each and everyday!"
No one was injured during the incident.
Smith is being held in jail without bond.
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