EVANSVILLE, Ind. — A 25-year-old Evansville man is facing multiple charges after allegedly driving under the influence through Akin Park late Saturday night, causing damage to public property.
According to the Evansville Police Department, officers responded to a call around 11 p.m. after reports of a truck performing donuts in the park. The driver, later identified as Anthony Johnson, reportedly struck a tree before fleeing the scene. Authorities were able to locate Johnson shortly after, observing several signs of intoxication, including glossy eyes, the smell of alcohol, and beer cans in the vehicle’s floorboard.
A passenger in the vehicle told officers that Johnson had been drinking since 3 p.m. and had been performing burnouts in a gravel lot before entering Akin Park. Johnson admitted to drinking three beers over a two-hour period but refused to take a portable breath test.
“This is not the first time we’ve seen something like this,” said Danielle Crook, executive director of Evansville Parks and Recreation. “Unfortunately, it happened in Akin Park this time, but there have been previous incidents of people driving through park areas.”
While Crook confirmed that the damage appeared to be minimal, she noted that a more detailed inspection of the area would take place after mowing. The damage is expected to be repaired with grass reseeding, though Crook added that if the grass did not grow back, alternative repair options would be considered.
“The biggest advocates for our parks are the residents,” Crook emphasized. “They take great pride in protecting these spaces, and they often act as the first line of defense in reporting such incidents.”
In addition to the charge of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, Johnson is facing charges of criminal mischief. Police also discovered that Johnson was driving with a suspended license and without insurance. His record includes multiple prior DUI convictions, which will likely lead to additional legal consequences.
The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing importance of community vigilance in protecting public spaces and ensuring the safety of all who use them.
