A Chattooga County man was arrested last week on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and other traffic offenses after an officer observed him driving without a seat belt. Charles Allen Jenkins, 31, was taken into custody on July 7, 2025, after failing multiple field sobriety tests, according to a report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.

The incident began when a sheriff’s deputy was observing traffic on Ridgeway Drive near Tatum Road. The deputy noted a red passenger car, driven by Jenkins, pass without the driver using a lap and shoulder belt, prompting a traffic stop. Upon approaching Jenkins, the deputy detected a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from his breath. Jenkins reportedly told the deputy he had consumed “only two beers.” A check of Jenkins’ driver’s license also revealed it was expired.

With the assistance of the sheriff department’s K-9, a consent search of the vehicle was conducted. During the search, two empty Bud Light cans, described as still cold to the touch and having condensation, were located on the passenger floorboard, suggesting recent consumption. Jenkins agreed to perform field sobriety tests.  Based on the findings from the field sobriety tests, the deputy determined there was probable cause to believe Jenkins was impaired and placed him under arrest.

Jenkins faces charges of DUI-Alcohol (Misdemeanor) and various traffic offenses.