Indianapolis, Indiana – James Ellis Cox, a 35-year-old officer with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), was arrested on Sunday, October 7, 2024, after being charged with driving under the influence (DUI) and endangering a minor.
The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning when Cox, off duty at the time, was spotted speeding in a grey SUV on Southeastern Avenue.
An affidavit for probable cause revealed that Cox’s vehicle was seen passing another car at high speed and swerving into oncoming traffic, reaching speeds of up to 90 mph before being stopped by a fellow IMPD officer.
Upon stopping the vehicle, the officer noticed the smell of alcohol and conducted field sobriety tests on Cox, who reportedly failed three of them.
Cox later admitted to having consumed two shots of tequila prior to the incident.
Adding to the severity of the situation, Cox had a juvenile passenger in the car with him at the time of his arrest, claiming they were returning from a playdate and that his excessive speed was due to the child’s need for a restroom.
Cox is facing two misdemeanor charges for driving under the influence and endangerment, with his blood alcohol content recorded between .08 and .15.
This is not Cox’s first run-in with the law, as he faced domestic assault allegations in 2021, although that case was later expunged.
The IMPD has yet to comment on Cox’s current standing within the department following this latest arrest.