La Plata Man Busted For DUI, Cocaine After Snowy Roadside Encounter

LA PLATA, Md. — A La Plata man is facing multiple impaired-driving and drug possession charges following a Maryland State Police encounter during snowy conditions in Charles County, according to court records.

Police identified the defendant as Willis Matthews Brooks, 44, of La Plata. Troopers made contact with Brooks shortly after midnight on Dec. 14, 2025, after his Ford Explorer became disabled along Charles Street near La Plata Road.

According to charging documents, a state trooper was assisting with the vehicle when Brooks showed signs of impairment, including the odor of alcohol and difficulty performing basic motor tasks. Investigators said Brooks admitted he had been driving prior to stopping.

Troopers conducted roadside sobriety testing, during which Brooks displayed multiple indicators of impairment. A preliminary breath test recorded a blood alcohol concentration of 0.10, records state.

Brooks was taken into custody after troopers determined he was unable to safely operate a vehicle. Authorities said he later refused to submit to a chemical alcohol or drug test.

During a search incident to arrest, troopers reported finding a white powdery substance believed to be cocaine inside Brooks’ wallet. Brooks allegedly acknowledged the substance, which was later charged as possession of a controlled dangerous substance not related to cannabis, a misdemeanor.

Court records show Brooks was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol per se, driving while impaired by alcohol and drugs, driving while impaired by a controlled dangerous substance, driving while so impaired he could not drive safely, refusal to submit to alcohol or drug testing, and possession of a controlled dangerous substance.

Brooks was released on a $5,000 unsecured personal bond. A trial scheduling hearing is set for Feb. 10, 2026, in Charles County District Court.

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