STAFFORD, Va. — A man was arrested on Christmas Eve after being found slumped over in a running vehicle in a Lowe’s parking lot, marking his third DUI offense in a decade, Stafford County authorities said.
Deputy R.W. Stamm was flagged down around 5:10 p.m. on December 24 by a citizen at Stafford Market Place who reported seeing an intoxicated driver operating a Nissan. The citizen observed the man park poorly on a curb in the Lowe’s parking lot.
Stamm located the vehicle, which was still running, and found the driver, identified as Gregory Thomas, 37, of Triangle, Va., slumped over in the driver’s seat. When Thomas woke, deputies noted signs of intoxication and discovered empty alcohol bottles inside the car.
Thomas admitted to consuming alcohol prior to driving, authorities said.
A background check revealed Thomas had two prior DUI convictions in Prince William County. His latest offense, with a blood alcohol content between .15 and .2, led to his arrest and charges of DUI third offense within 10 years.
Thomas is being held without bond at the Rappahannock Regional Jail. The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office reminded drivers of the dangers of impaired driving during the holiday season, emphasizing the importance of staying sober behind the wheel.
The arrest underscores ongoing efforts by local authorities to crack down on repeat offenders and keep roadways safe.