Unlicensed Drunk Driver

(GERING, Neb.) — A Morrill man facing multiple traffic and alcohol-related offenses was bound over to Scotts Bluff County District Court Monday on a felony charge of driving while revoked.

Derick T. Gutierrez, 36, appeared via Zoom from custody before Scotts Bluff County Court Judge Mark L. Kovarik on Oct. 5, 2026.

During the hearing, Gutierrez knowingly waived his right to a preliminary hearing on Count 2, driving while revoked from DUI/refusal, a Class 2A felony.

At the prosecutor’s request, three additional charges — DUI (.15+ or refusal with one prior conviction), possession or consumption of an open alcohol container and speeding 11-15 mph — were dismissed without prejudice.

The charges stem from a late-night traffic stop Sept. 24, 2026, conducted by Nebraska State Patrol Trooper C. Miller.

According to a warrantless arrest affidavit, Miller observed a silver 2008 GMC Acadia traveling westbound on Highway 26 near mile marker 10 at speeds reaching 80 mph in a 65 mph zone.

After initiating a traffic stop on Jefferson Avenue in Morrill, Miller contacted Gutierrez as he exited the vehicle. Officers observed signs of impairment, an open Fireball shooter on the vehicle floorboard and additional open alcoholic containers within reach.

Law enforcement determined Gutierrez’s driver’s license had been revoked following a prior DWI conviction.

A subsequent chemical test at the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center indicated a blood alcohol concentration of 0.224 grams per 210 liters of breath.

Under a stipulation between defense attorney Cody Adamson and County Attorney Helen O. Winston, Gutierrez’s bond was set at personal recognizance.

Gutierrez is scheduled to be arraigned in Scotts Bluff County District Court at 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16, 2026.

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Thursday Oct 8 2026 - Scanner News - Panhandle Scanner News

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