Dui stop turns serious after child found in vehicle — handcuff

Driver charged with DUI after traffic stop reveals child in vehicle

Stafford County, VA — A routine traffic stop for a lane violation led to multiple charges after deputies determined a driver was under the influence with a child in the vehicle.

The incident occurred around 6:40 p.m. April 24 near Windsong Way and Stefaniga Road. A deputy observed a vehicle failing to maintain its lane and initiated a stop.

During the encounter, the driver initially stated she had been using her phone while driving and denied consuming alcohol. Authorities said she later changed her statement.

Field sobriety tests were conducted, and a breath sample was taken. The driver was subsequently arrested and transported to the Sheriff’s Office, where additional testing showed her blood alcohol content was above the legal limit.

Officials identified the driver as 38-year-old Erika Romero Diaz of Stafford.

Due to a child being present in the vehicle, deputies added additional charges. Romero Diaz was charged with driving under the influence, abuse and neglect of children, holding a phone while operating a vehicle, and a traffic lane violation.

Key Points

Driver stopped for lane violation in Stafford County
Arrest made after DUI investigation and breath test
Child in vehicle led to additional charges

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

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Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

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