Around 9:20 PM on Saturday, Casey County Deputy Jacob Atwood observed a 2007 Toyota pickup driving erratically on Hustonville Street, even mounting the sidewalk. The driver, later identified as 50-year-old Donald D. Propes Jr. of Liberty, crossed the centerline several times and drifted between lanes. When the vehicle stopped at the intersection of US 127 and Hustonville Street without signaling, Deputy Atwood initiated a traffic stop.

Upon contact, Deputy Atwood noted the smell of alcohol and observed Propes's glassy, bloodshot eyes. Propes was uncooperative, providing only proof of insurance and a social security number that dispatch could not match. A marijuana cigarette was spotted in his hand, which he claimed was "legal stuff" he hadn't yet smoked.

When asked to perform a field sobriety test, Propes refused and was subsequently placed under arrest after resisting exit orders. Once out of the vehicle, Propes was unsteady on his feet and used the truck for support. Deputy Atwood and Deputy Harris, who also noted the odor of alcohol, transported Propes to Casey County Jail. However, Propes became unresponsive, prompting an emergency trip to the hospital.

Medical staff confirmed the smell of alcohol, and Propes exhibited intermittent consciousness, especially when questioned. After being medically cleared, he refused a blood test and was returned to the jail, charged with Reckless Driving, License to be in Possession, DUI-2nd offense, and No Registration Receipt.