Driver Charged with Drugged Driving After Striking Pole

A Stoughton man was allegedly on two medications when he crashed into a pole on Park Street.

Eric Churchill, 33, was charged with drugged driving, marked lanes violation, and negligent operation of a motor vehicle, according to court records at Stoughton District Court.

According to the police report, officers were notified of a car that struck a pole on Park Street Monday morning. A witness told police that the vehicle was traveling north when it veered into the opposite lane and crashed into a pole, with no attempt to stop or slow down.

Churchill told police that he was arguing with his ex-girlfriend on the phone when he reached for a pen, veering to the other side of the street in the process. He would later say that he was attempting to get a pill bottle.

When asked if he was on medication, Churchill said had taken methadone and gabapentin. Those who take both drugs are advised not to drive after taking them, according to the report.

After failing a field sobriety test, Churchill was taken into custody. He was ordered held on $1,500 cash bail. He was also ordered to not drive should he make bail.