Oregon Lawmaker Arrested on DUII Charge After Allegedly Hitting Stop Sign and Driving Off

By Lucille McNamara On Oct 7, 2026

Oregon State Rep. Paul Evans was arrested in Polk County during the early hours of Sunday morning with double the legal limit of alcohol in his blood, according to Polk County Circuit Court records.

Fifty-six-year-old Evans is running for a seventh consecutive term in the November 3 election to represent Monmouth, Independence, Southwest Salem, and West Salem in House District 20.

Following his release from custody on Monday, Evans pleaded not guilty to three misdemeanor charges of driving under the influence of alcohol, reckless driving, and failure to stop after damaging property.

Police Describe the Crash: Evans Responds

Independence Police officers arrested Evans at 2.45 a.m. on Sunday after receiving a report of a hit-and-run at an intersection.

They conducted field sobriety and breathalyzer tests, which showed a 0.16% blood alcohol content.

Tidings Context

Oregon’s DUII threshold for most drivers is 0.08%. A person can also be convicted below that level if other evidence proves the driver was under the influence.

According to an Independence Police report, a Jeep reported to have fled the scene was found with bumper damage at the same height as the significantly bent stop sign.

Tidings Insight

Oregon classifies failure to perform driver duties after property damage as a Class A misdemeanor. Drivers who damage roadside property must take reasonable steps to notify its owner or person in charge.

In a statement, Evans apologized to his constituents and undertook to seek out-patient treatment. A release agreement prohibits him from consuming liquor or visiting liquor stores and bars. He is scheduled to appear in court on October 28.

By Lucille McNamara | Covers public safety, courts and Oregon policy

Marion County Salem