Colorado DUI Traffic Stop Turns Into Child Endangerment Case After Driver Admits Kids Were Riding in Trunk
WESTMINSTER, COLORADO — A traffic stop in Westminster took a disturbing turn after police say a 40-year-old driver casually admitted his three children were riding in the trunk while officers investigated suspected impaired driving.
What Police Say Happened During the Stop
According to the details shared with the public, Westminster police pulled over Thomas Michael Raiola, 40, on January 23 after officers spotted what they described as erratic driving near City Center Drive. During the encounter, body-worn camera footage reportedly captured Raiola telling officers that his three kids were in the trunk, describing it as something done “for fun.”
The situation escalated quickly once officers realized the children were not in the passenger area of the vehicle.
Officers Opened the Trunk and Found Children Inside
Police said officers opened the trunk—described in reports as happening in freezing weather—and found three young children huddled together. Accounts tied to the bodycam video say the children were unharmed but visibly scared, and that the trunk area also contained alcohol bottles and clutter.
Police also indicated the front of the vehicle was packed with “stuff,” which was cited as a reason the children were not seated properly inside the car.
Charges Filed and What Happened to the Children
Raiola was arrested and faces allegations including DUI, reckless driving, no insurance, and child abuse-related charges, based on the information released about the stop. Authorities said the children were removed from the vehicle and later released to family, with child protective services also involved, according to the public summary circulating with the bodycam footage.
Police shared the video publicly as a warning about the dangers of impaired driving and the life-threatening risks that come with unsafe transport of children.
Why Investigators Say This Case Matters
Even when children are not physically injured, law enforcement and child welfare agencies often view incidents like this as serious endangerment—especially when alcohol, unsafe seating, and cold conditions are part of the situation. Police have not indicated whether additional charges could follow, but the case has already prompted widespread reaction due to the driver’s alleged comments on camera.
What should the consequences be when kids are put in danger during a DUI situation? Share your thoughts, and follow more public-safety coverage at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
