Springfield police officer Robinson on leave after third OVI arrest

Springfield Police. FILE

Springfield Police. FILE

A Springfield police officer is on leave following his sentencing for an OVI charge.

Joseph Robinson was sentenced to spend 15 days in jail, with 165 days of his 180-day sentence being suspended, according to court records.

This is Robinson’s third OVI charge in five years, but appears to be his first conviction. His most recent sentencing is for an OVI arrest on Aug. 16, 2024 at McCreight Avenue and Elm Street in Springfield.

During this incident, a police officer pulled Robinson over for failing to use his turn signal when turning left. Robinson attempted to exit his Dodge Challenger and began walking toward the police car wearing one shoe, according to a statement of facts.

After failing to comply with the officer’s initial orders, Robinson then complied and when the officer put him in handcuffs, he allegedly smelled alcohol on him. Robinson refused a field sobriety test, as well as a chemical breath test at the police station.

Robinson’s driver’s license will be suspended for two years, and he will also have to wear a device monitoring his alcohol consumption for 60 days after he is released from jail, as well as pay a $500 fine.

Robinson is also required to “obtain a current drug/alcohol/mental health assessment” and must also successfully complete counseling or treatment recommended by treatment providers or his probation officer.

Robinson requested early release but it was denied.

The News-Sun requested more information from Springfield police both Monday and Tuesday, but had not yet received a response Tuesday afternoon.

WHIO reported Springfield police chief Allison Elliot said Robinson was on administrative leave while the city followed its policies for a thorough review of the incident.

Joseph Robinson. COURTESY OF GREENE COUNTY JAIL

Credit: Greene County Jail

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Credit: Greene County Jail

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