Conn. man accused of OUI, stealing employer’s vehicle

LINNEUS – A Connecticut man was charged Saturday afternoon with operating under the influence of intoxicants after he drove a truck he allegedly stole from his employer off the road and it became stuck in a ditch, according to a Maine State Police trooper.

Wayne Keevers, 38, of Bristol, Conn., remained Sunday at the Aroostook County Jail in Houlton after he was arrested Saturday on charges of OUI and possession of a stolen motor vehicle, State Trooper Chuck Michaud said Sunday.

Michaud said a passing motorist called the state police about 1:30 p.m. Saturday to report a vehicle off the road on Route 2A. Michaud arrived to reportedly find Keevers passed out on the floor of the truck.

The trooper woke up the man and asked him what happened. Michaud said Keevers had been in the muddy ditch for about half an hour and had been unable to extricate the vehicle on his own.

Police learned the 1998 Chevrolet pickup truck Keevers was operating was owned by his former employer in Bristol. The truck, valued at about $6,000, was reported stolen to Bristol police Thursday.

Michaud said Keevers was in northern Maine to visit a friend or relative in the area. His blood-alcohol level reportedly was 0.19.

The trooper said Keevers has not been able to make bail. His court appearance is scheduled for June 6.