Staff Report

Paul Edward Budde

WARSAW — A Leesburg man was arrested after allegedly driving a vehicle while under the influence and illegally possessing a firearm.

Paul Edward Budde, 28, 4978 E. Shore Park Road, Leesburg, is charged with operating a vehicle with an alcohol concentration equivalent to at least 0.08, a class C misdemeanor; unlawful carrying of a handgun and operating a vehicle while intoxicated with a prior conviction enhancement, both level 5 felonies; driving while suspended, a class A misdemeanor; and possession of marijuana, a class B misdemeanor.

On March 21, a Warsaw Police officer saw a vehicle run a red light and pulled it over. The vehicle’s driver was identified as Budde.

According to court documents, the officer noticed two open containers of alcohol in the vehicle, as well as the smell of marijuana. Budde admitted to drinking alcohol.

Budde failed several field sobriety tests and tested 0.100% BrAC on a certified chemical test. While being taken into custody, officers found a THC vape on Budde’s person.

Upon searching Budde’s vehicle, officers found multiple burnt marijuana cigarette ends and a firearm.

Budde was previously convicted of OWI causing serious bodily injury in July 2018. He also has an indefinite suspension on his driving record for failing to provide proof of insurance. This suspension commenced in November 2023.

Budde also has a prior judgment against him for driving while suspended in Elkhart County in July 2021.

Budde has already been arrested and released on bond. He has an initial hearing at 1 p.m. April 18, in Kosciusko Superior Court Three.