Semi Driver Arrested for Drugs and Texting

(WACO, Neb.) — Reports from concerned motorists prompted law enforcement to respond to a potentially dangerous situation on Interstate 80 Friday morning, leading to an investigation and an arrest.

On 08/21/2026 at approximately 7:55 am, a sergeant with our office was dispatched to Interstate 80 after York County 911 received reports of a semi swerving all over the road, leaving the roadway, and almost striking a vehicle as it re-entered the roadway.

The sergeant made contact with the driver at the Waco Fuel Stop and observed multiple indicators of impairment. During further investigation, the driver of the semi stated that he was texting while driving. The driver was subsequently arrested and transported to our office for a drug influence evaluation.

• Possession of a controlled substance (28-416)
• Driving under the influence of drugs – 1st offense (60-6,196)
• Possession of a legend drug (71-2478)
• Willful reckless driving (60-6,214)
• Obstructing government operations (28-901)
• Refuse to submit to chemical test (60-6,197)
• Texting while operating a commercial motor vehicle (60-6,179.02)

Our office would like to thank the three callers who called this vehicle in. These calls ultimately could have saved several lives. Operating an 80,000 lb vehicle while under the influence of drugs is not a wise decision and our office remains committed to removing these impaired drivers from the roadways.

Additionally, this is the 2nd DUI-Drug case that our office has worked in the last 2 weeks that involved the abuse of prescription medications. Please be aware of what these prescriptions do to you, how they interact with each other inside the human body, and only take the proper dose given to you by a doctor.