Monster Truck Show Leads To LaPorte Worker Suspension

First monster truck show results in two alcohol-related arrests.

By STAN MADDUX
Tribune Correspondent

An employee of the LaPorte County Highway Department has been suspended for allegedly playing monster truck driver in a county-owned vehicle after a weekend show.

Meanwhile, a crash involving a pickup that overturned with five children who just attended the monster truck event riding in the bed has left fair officials saying they'll review their rules involving alcohol sales.

Bryan Batchelor, 38, of Kingsbury, a general foreman with the LaPorte County Highway Department, is charged with Class A misdemeanor operating while intoxicated.

LaPorte County Highway Department Superintendent Bob Young said Batchelor has been suspended indefinitely.

A decision on his job status will be made once Young and the LaPorte County Commissioners review the facts.

"We got to discuss how to handle the situation," said Young, who declined further comment.

According to LaPorte County Police, the Friday night edition of the RPM Fest at the LaPorte County fairgrounds had just finished.

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