A North Charleston man, Brandon Laughlin, was arrested on June 30 after driving under the influence with multiple juveniles in his vehicle. Laughlin faces several charges, including DUI in the first degree, open container violation, leaving the scene of an accident, and child endangerment.
The Incident Unfolds
At approximately 7:36 p.m. on June 30, officers patrolling the Dorchester Waylyn Community saw a red 2008 GMC Sierra driving recklessly. The vehicle was carrying multiple juveniles, both inside the cab and in the truck bed, without seatbelts. The vehicle was seen swerving and attempted a turn, nearly colliding with a police patrol car.
Officers attempted to stop the vehicle, but it managed to drive away and disappear from sight. Moments later, the vehicle was spotted again, now stopped, with fewer juveniles inside and the driver’s window rolled down.
Driver’s Admission and Arrest
When officers approached the vehicle, the driver, identified as Laughlin, admitted to being intoxicated. He stated that he was “trying to give the kids a better time.” Laughlin appeared unsteady on his feet when asked to exit the vehicle, prompting officers to place him under arrest. Further inspection of the vehicle revealed an open container of alcohol in plain view.
Hit-and-Run Connection
While officers were investigating Laughlin, they received a call about a hit-and-run involving a vehicle matching the description of Laughlin’s truck. Officers noticed fresh damage to the truck, which seemed connected to the reported accident. One of the juveniles in the vehicle had been recording the incident and captured audio of Laughlin striking another vehicle, possibly linking him to the hit-and-run.
Legal Consequences and Investigation
Laughlin was taken into custody and transported to the Charleston County Detention Center. In addition to DUI and child endangerment charges, Laughlin is also facing charges for the hit-and-run incident. This case highlights the dangers of driving under the influence, particularly when children are involved.
