A Pittsburgh-area mother is now facing multiple criminal charges after authorities say she sped down a busy highway at more than double the posted limit while under the influence of marijuana, with her two young daughters riding unrestrained in the back.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police, troopers stationed along Route 28 clocked a Hyundai Sonata traveling 117 mph in a 55 mph zone late Monday night, shortly after 11 p.m. When troopers pulled the vehicle over near Powers Run Road in O’Hara Township, they say the driver, identified as 27-year-old Destiny Fields, showed clear signs of impairment.
Investigators reported smelling a strong odor of burnt marijuana coming from inside the car and noticed visible smoke lingering in the cabin. In the back seat sat Fields’ two children — a 20-month-old and a 4-year-old — with the older child not secured in a car seat, according to the criminal complaint.
The children’s mother, who was seated in the front passenger seat, reportedly told troopers the family was simply heading home to put the kids to bed and unload groceries. Police noted in their report that this explanation gave no indication of any emergency that would justify such extreme speed.
Fields was asked to complete a field sobriety test, which she failed, according to authorities. A subsequent search of the vehicle turned up several burnt marijuana roaches inside an ashtray positioned in the center cup holder, along with multiple empty dispensary packaging inside the console.
She now faces a lengthy list of charges, including child endangerment, reckless endangerment, driving under the influence, and marijuana possession. Court records show Fields is scheduled to appear for a preliminary hearing on August 17.
The case remains under review as it moves through the court system.