Fairfield (NJ) The Fairfield Police Department announces the arrest of Cynthia Minarick, (34), of Secaucus, NJ for driving while intoxicated on June 16, 2023. On that date at approximately 10:08 am, officers were dispatched to Passaic Avenue near #180 on a report of a motor vehicle crash with injuries.
Upon the officer’s arrival on scene, both vehicles were found to be damaged and not drivable. Officer Jayson Sickles investigated the crash and spoke with all parties involved. He allegedly found Minarick to be exhibiting signs and symptoms consistent with someone who may be under the influence to include watery eyes, incoherent, slow speech as well as the odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from her breath. An occupant of the other vehicle was injured and transported to the hospital for evaluation.
Based on the totality of the circumstances, field sobriety testing was conducted, and Minarick was subsequently placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated. Allegedly found in the vehicle was an empty can of “High Noon” as well as a nearly empty bottle of cold syrup. The vehicle was subsequently impounded pursuant to New Jersey law. Minarick was transported to police headquarters for processing. It is alleged that Minarick refused to provide breath samples for testing purposes, which is required in the State of New Jersey. In addition to driving while intoxicated, Minarick was also charged with refusal to submit to breath testing, having an open container of alcohol in the vehicle, and several additional motor vehicle summonses. She was also charged criminally with assault by auto. Minarick was later released pending an initial appearance at the Essex County Superior Court on August 24, 2023.
(Charges are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.)
Issued by: Officer Stacy Chiarolanza (PIO)
