Off-Duty Toledo Officer Arrested for DUI with Child

Off-duty Toledo Police officer Michael Ellerbrock was arrested for operating under the influence after crashing his truck into a ditch on Lakeside Road in Monroe County, Michigan on March 23, 2026. The 12-year veteran had his young son in the vehicle at the time of the crash.

Responding Monroe County deputies observed signs of impairment including slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, and the odor of intoxicants. Ellerbrock initially refused to submit to field sobriety tests but later agreed to a breath test.

The breath test results showed blood alcohol levels of .196 and .20, more than double Michigan's legal limit of .08. Body camera footage captured Ellerbrock pleading with the arresting deputy, referencing his position as a fellow law enforcement officer and claiming he had extended similar courtesies to others in the past.

The deputy proceeded with the arrest despite Ellerbrock's emotional appeals. He was initially charged with operating under the influence with an occupant under 16 years of age, a serious offense that carries enhanced penalties due to the presence of a minor in the vehicle.

Ellerbrock later entered a plea agreement that reduced the charge to operating a vehicle while visibly impaired. His sentencing was scheduled for June 12, 2026.