A man from Lafayette is now facing multiple charges after being stopped by Sparta Police on January 11. Around 3:23 p.m., officers received a call about 60-year-old Felix Alvarado driving erratically in the area of Sparta Junction. Witnesses reported seeing his gray Nissan Armada swerving off the road, running a red light, and driving dangerously along Route 15.
Police tracked down Alvarado and pulled him over on Town Center Drive. When they spoke to him, they noticed he seemed lethargic, was slurring his words, and had constricted pupils, all signs that he might be impaired. Alvarado later admitted to officers that he had taken oxycodone earlier that day.
During a field sobriety test, Alvarado struggled to keep his balance and follow instructions, according to police. A search of his car turned up a large, serrated machete and drug-related items, adding to the seriousness of the situation.
Alvarado was taken to the Sparta Police Department for processing and charged with several offenses, including unlawful possession of a weapon, certain persons not to possess weapons, driving while under the influence, careless driving, reckless driving, and failure to notify the DMV of an address change.
After being processed, he was sent to the Morris County Correctional Facility and is awaiting a court appearance in Superior Court in Newton.
This is a reminder to always drive safely and avoid any substances that could impair your ability to be on the road. Stay informed about your local area with daily updates from trusted media sources. If you’re a business owner, consider sponsoring local news to reach thousands of readers in Sparta and beyond.
