Salem Woman, Pelham Man Arrested For DUI

PELHAM, NH — Two local residents were arrested on drunk driving charges this weekend after crashes in Pelham, according to police. Daniel Sweeney, 27, of Pelham, was arrested on Aug. 12, 2017, for DUI, DUI – second offense, and reckless operation. Arrested on Aug. 13, 2017, in a separate crash was Katherine Miller, 25, of Salem, for DUI.

Editor’s Note: This post was derived from information supplied by the Pelham Police Department. It does not indicate a conviction. This link explains the name removal request process for NH Patch police reports.

At about 1:45 a.m. on Saturday morning, officers were sent to Island Pond Road for a report of a crash. (For more information on this and other neighborhood stories, subscribe to Salem NH Patch to receive daily newsletters and breaking news alerts.)

OnStar reported that a 2017 Chevrolet Camaro crashed into a yard and the vehicle’s airbags deployed, according to Sgt. Matt Keenliside of the Pelham Police.

“OnStar relayed that the driver said he swerved to avoid an animal and he was bleeding from the nose,” according to a press statement. “Two additional callers living in the area also called 911 to report the crash.”

Sweeney – the driver – was evaluated by EMTs but refused treatment and allegedly refused to discuss the crash with police.

“It appeared that he was driving north on Island Pond Road toward Dutton Road, failed to negotiate a turn, struck a tree and launched deep into the front yard of 12 Island Pond Road,” he noted. “Officers observed indicators of impairment and requested Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs). He was arrested for DUI at the conclusion of the investigation.”

The vehicle sustained extensive damage and was towed from the scene, according to police.

The next night, police were sent to Greeley Road for a report of a crash involving a Volkswagen Passat near Mammoth Road.

“(Miller) failed to negotiate a turn, crossed the center line and crashed into a boulder on the opposite side of the road,” a press statement said. “Officers and the tow driver noticed signs of impairment. She performed FSTs and was arrested at the conclusion of the investigation. Katherine was charged with DUI.”

Both Sweeney and Miller were bailed and released to sober parties. They are due in Salem District Court on Aug. 28.

“The Pelham Police Department strongly urges drivers to not get behind the wheel while under the influence,” according to the police statement. “PPD officers always prefer to stop and arrest drunk drivers before they crash. Failing that, we are still willing to arrange a meeting between you and the local Judges should you decide not to heed our advice. Please drive safe.”