A bizarre chain of events unfolded in Wisconsin when a woman on her way to a job interview was arrested at a gas station — after police discovered she was driving under the influence. What began as a simple traffic stop turned into a viral cautionary tale about how one reckless decision can destroy an opportunity in seconds.
According to bodycam footage released by authorities, officers were alerted after a 911 caller reported a driver “swerving dangerously” through traffic and nearly hitting another car. The suspect’s vehicle, a black sedan, was later found parked near a gas pump, engine still running.
When officers approached, they noticed the driver — later identified as a 29-year-old woman — struggling to keep her balance as she exited the car. She reportedly told police, “I’m just here to grab a drink before my interview,” slurring her words while fumbling for her ID.
Upon inspection, officers spotted an open bottle in the passenger seat. When asked how much she had to drink, the woman initially denied consuming alcohol but soon admitted, “Just a few shots to calm my nerves.”
The bodycam footage captured the surreal exchange as the officer sighed and replied, “You realize this isn’t how you impress your future boss, right?”
After failing several field sobriety tests, the woman was placed under arrest for operating while intoxicated (OWI). Her blood alcohol level was reportedly over twice the legal limit. Police say she admitted she was anxious about her upcoming interview and thought “a little bit of liquid courage” would help.
Unfortunately for her, it had the opposite effect. “She never made it to the interview,” said the local police spokesperson. “Instead, she spent the afternoon at the county jail.”
The story has since gone viral online, sparking a mix of sympathy and disbelief. Many social media users pointed out how stress and desperation can lead to terrible decisions. “She probably needed that job badly — but this shows how one mistake can ruin your chances instantly,” one commenter wrote.
Others were less forgiving. “There’s no excuse,” another said. “If you’re nervous, drink water, not vodka.”
This isn’t an isolated case, either. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 10,000 people die every year due to alcohol-impaired driving — and many more lose their jobs, licenses, and reputations after being caught.
Experts say anxiety-related drinking is a growing issue, especially among job seekers under pressure. “Alcohol might seem like a quick fix for nerves, but it impairs judgment faster than most people realize,” said psychologist Dr. Nina Larsen. “It turns stress into disaster.”
The woman now faces misdemeanor charges and the possibility of losing her driver’s license. Police hope her story will serve as a warning.
As the arresting officer reportedly told her before escorting her away:
“You wanted to make a good impression — but now, you’ve made one for all the wrong reasons.”
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