Ouachita Parish Deputies apprehended Elijah Blanson, Jr. on the evening of August 22, 2023, on charges including Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), a fourth offense, according to official reports. Blanson, a resident of 1934 Old Natchitoches Road in West Monroe, now faces a series of serious allegations stemming from his arrest.
Blanson, identified as a Black male, was taken into custody after deputies encountered a suspicious scene on Church Street. Deputies discovered a vehicle parked in the middle of the road, later identified as belonging to Blanson. As authorities approached the scene, they observed Blanson exiting a nearby yard and entering the driver’s seat of the vehicle. The suspect vehicle was found to be running at the time.
Upon closer inspection, deputies noticed an open container of alcohol placed conspicuously in the central cup holder of the vehicle. An unmistakable aroma commonly associated with alcoholic beverages permeated the interior of the vehicle, further raising suspicions. Following these observations, deputies instructed Blanson to exit the vehicle and move to the rear.
While speaking with the driver, deputies detected telltale signs of intoxication. Blanson’s eyes were described as watery and bloodshot, his speech was slurred, and he exhibited an unsteady posture. Subsequent Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) reportedly indicated poor performance on Blanson’s part. These observations led to his arrest for DWI.
Upon arriving at Ouachita Correctional Center (OCC), Blanson was apprised of his rights pertaining to a chemical test for intoxication. However, he chose to decline the breath test, prompting deputies to secure a blood draw warrant signed by Judge Winters. A blood sample was subsequently collected and will be sent to the crime lab for thorough analysis.
Further investigation revealed that Blanson had a previous conviction for DWI, which marked his third offense. The conviction had taken place in March of the same year, and his driver’s license was slated for suspension as a consequence. The revelation of these prior offenses added weight to the charges against him.
Elijah Blanson, Jr. was booked into OCC on charges that include an open container violation, driving with a suspended license, DWI fourth offense, and obstructing public passages. His arrest underscores the importance of responsible driving and the serious consequences of repeated DWI offenses.
