(ELKTON, MD) — A state trooper still on probation was charged with driving under the influence early this morning by Maryland State Police after he was involved in a single vehicle collision in Cecil County.
He is identified as Trooper Thomas C. Hobbs, 26, who is assigned to the Aviation Command as a rescue technician at the Frederick Section. Troopers issued citations to Hobbs at the hospital, charging him with driving under the influence of alcohol, driving while impaired by alcohol, negligent driving, and reckless driving. His police powers have been suspended and he has been suspended from duty with pay.
Shortly after 12:30 a.m. today, Maryland State Police troopers from the North East Barrack responded to the report of an overturned vehicle on Rt. 279, north of Appleton Road, Elkton. The first trooper on the scene found the driver, the only occupant of the vehicle, still inside the vehicle. The driver, later identified as Hobbs, exhibited signs indicative of someone under the influence.
Emergency medical service personnel removed Hobbs from the vehicle and transported him by ambulance to Christiana Hospital. Troopers continued their investigation at the hospital and determined evidence indicated Hobbs was under the influence. He was charged accordingly.
Maryland State Police commanders were notified. The North East Barrack commander responded and suspended Hobbs’ police powers. The State Police Internal Affairs Unit was also notified and will be conducting an investigation.
Hobbs has been employed by the Maryland State Police for 17 months. All troopers remain in a probationary status until they have completed 24 months with the Department. He remains a patient at the hospital at this time.
