Hopkinsville, KY – July 1, 2024
The Christian County Sheriff’s Office reports the arrest of an individual following a collision on Eagle Way Bypass. The incident occurred near the intersection with Edward T Breathitt Parkway.
At approximately 9:00pm on June 29th, 2024, Deputies observed two vehicles in the northbound Parkway turn lane, with individuals standing outside the vehicles. Upon further investigation, it was determined that the vehicles had been involved in a collision.
The listed suspect, identified as 46-year-old Penny Rushing of Hopkinsville, KY, was found slumped over in the driver’s seat. When asked to provide her driver’s license, registration, and insurance card, she exhibited extremely slurred speech and delayed reactions. Rushing was able to produce her driver’s license but failed to provide current insurance or registration for the vehicle.
Further investigation revealed that the vehicle’s tags had expired as of March 31, 2024. Deputies requested consent to search the vehicle, but Rushing refused. She was instructed to exit the vehicle and stand in front of the patrol car with another unit. A K9 unit was deployed and alerted on the vehicle.
Inside the vehicle was found several miscellaneous pills that were not inside their proper container, a small baggie of green leafy substance a multicolored pipe with burnt residue. Due to her failing to cooperate and follow instruction FST’s were unable to be performed for her safety.
Despite repeated instructions, Rushing became enraged, attempting to attack a K9 Deputy, and attempted to walk into traffic.
Rushing was secured and instructed to sit beside the patrol vehicle. She now faces the following charges:
- Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or substances (189A.010(1E) – 1st offense, aggravated circumstances)
- No registration plates
- No registration receipt
- Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/security, 1st offense
- Possession of marijuana
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Possession of a prescription-controlled substance not in proper container, 1st offense
- Failure to produce an insurance card
- Attempted assault on a police officer or probation officer (3rd degree)
Rushing is currently in custody at the Christian County Jail pending arraignment.
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