MASON CITY – A Hampton man who is accused of reckless drunk driving with a child in his car skipped court and was brought to jail.
Benito Damas Hernandez, age 22, was due in court recently to answer for charges of first offense operating while intoxicated, child endangerment, interference with official acts, driving while barred, no insurance, open container of alcohol, reckless driving, and fail to restrain child in a booster seat.
Hernandez was stopped by Rockwell Police in November after a caller reported his vehicle was “all over the road” near the intersection of Highway 65 and 200th Street in rural Cerro Gordo County. A Sheriff’s Deputy, along with Iowa State Patrol Troopers arrived a short time later to assist. It was found that Hernandez was under the influence of alcohol and there was a young child, age 3, in the vehicle. He was then arrested.
Hernandez posted bond and was released from jail. He was due in court last week but failed to appear. Records show he was caught by Hampton police after a warrant was issued for his arrest. He was jailed in Cerro Gordo county but again posted bond and was released pending a new court date.
