Woman mistakes officer for Sonic waiter, faces DUI

ELIZABETHTON, Tenn. -- A Bluff City woman who mistook a police officer for a car hop at a Sonic drive-in is charged with DUI and possession of drug paraphernalia.

A 911 caller Nov. 7 reported Veletta Newman nearly struck several vehicles before pulling into the drive-in.

The Johnson City Press reports Elizabethton police officer Sarah Ellison found Newman slumped over the steering wheel. When Ellison tried to get the woman's attention Newman handed her a $20 bill, continuing to offer it even after Ellison identified herself as an officer.

Newman was arrested and the officer found a syringe, a spoon with white powdery residue and numerous bottles of prescription medicine in the car.

Newton appeared in Sessions Court on Tuesday. Her hearing was set for April 6.