MANSFIELD — A 12-year Mansfield police officer — placed on administrative leave Saturday afternoon for allegedly reporting to work under the influence of alcohol — was arrested less than eight hours later by Ontario police for suspected drunk driving.
Officer John Meyer, who joined the department in 2014, was placed on leave after reporting to work under the influence of alcohol Saturday at 1:30 p.m., according to a press release Wednesday by Chief Jason Bammann.
The press release said department officials initiated the administrative process outlined in the Fraternal Order of Police collective bargaining agreement and city policy.
The 39-year-old Meyer was immediately relieved of duty and taken to OhioHealth for a drug and alcohol test. He was then placed on administrative leave, pending an investigation, the chief said.
On Saturday evening, at approximately 9 p.m., the Ontario Police Department stopped Meyer for allegedly operating a motor vehicle under the influence, according to Bammann.
Meyer was arrested and booked into the Richland County Jail.
He faces charges of operating a vehicle impaired, marked lanes violation, improper lane change and open container, according to Bammann.
According to Ontario Mayor’s Court online records, Meyer posted bond on Monday and is scheduled to be arraigned Thursday morning.
Meyer has been with the Mansfield Police Department since Jan. 28, 2014.
Bammann said no additional details are currently available due to the ongoing administrative investigation and pending criminal charges.
