Charges filed after Hayfield School Bus Crash
Leif Elijah Haugland (36) was recently charged in Dodge County after an alleged minivan versus bus crash took place in Hayfield.
According to the complaint, on Nov. 16 a Dodge County Deputy was informed about a vehicle incident involving a school bus and minivan. He was advised that the minivan left the scene at a high rate of speed and witnesses were able to provide a description of the minivan, he plate number and the male driver.
The deputy was able to catch up to the vehicle, where he then activated his emergency lights and sirens, but the vehicle did not pull over and stop for several miles.
When the vehicle pulled to the side and stopped, Haugland exited the vehicle and was placed into custody without incident. The deputy observed that Haugland’s speech was slurred, his eyes were watery, and Haugland had difficulty standing on his own. Haugland also had a strong odor of alcohol on his breath and person. At this time a PBT was administered and registered .18. A Dodge County Sgt. located a partially used bottle of Crown Royal Apple on the passenger’s front floor. The minivan had substantial damage to the left front end and a smashed windshield. It was also observed that the minivan had fresh yellow paint from the hood to the mid windshield.
At that point the deputy transported Haugland to the the Sheriff’s Office for further testing. During the transport, Haugland freely spoke about the incident, stating that he had too much to drink, having problems with alcohol, and stated that he had interest in pressing charges against the bus driver since his neck hurt during the incident where Haugland stated the bus pulled out in front of him.
Once at the Sheriff’s Office a intoxilyzer DMT test was administered, and Haugland registered at .16.
Haugland was then transported to the Steele County Jail.
During a hearing on Monday, Nov. 19 Haugland was granted release conditions of $10,000 with conditions or $20,000 without conditions.
According to jail records Haugland remains in custody.
If convicted of the most serious charge, Felony, Fleeing a Peace Officer in Motor Vehicle, he can face up to 3 years and one day in prison and or a fine of $5,000.
Haugland is scheduled to appear in court again on Wednesday, Nov. 28 for an Initial Appearance.
The DCI will continue to provide updates on this case as they become available.