Judge notes erratic driving in jail sentence for Baker

NEBRASKA CITY -Judge Julie Smith sentenced Nicholas Baker, 37, of Nebraska City to 180 days in jail for possession of illegal drugs in November of 2022 and July of 2023.

Otoe County Attorney Jennifer Panko-Rahe argued against probation saying Baker was driving erratically in both cases.

In the 2022 case, an Otoe County sheriff’s deputy was dispatched to Unadilla on a report of a car hitting road signs. The deputy found Baker in the village park trying to cut off the driver’s side quarter panel due to damage. A jail search revealed cocaine on Baker’s person.

In July,  Nebraska State Patrol Superintendent John Bolduc reported a driver unable to maintain lane that  nearly caused of head-on collision on Highway 75. An Otoe County Sheriff’s Office K9 was called and indicated to the vehicle. Prosecutors say methamphetamine was found.

Judge Julie Smith said if the erratic driving had not been involved she might have ordered probation, but said Baker posed a public risk. She said he was out on bond from the November case, when he was pulled over the state patrol in the July case.

Baker was given credit for 97 days already served.