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Driver Faces Multiple Charges After Crash, Spitting At Police

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A Warsaw man who wrecked his car while allegedly driving drunk Monday night was restrained and had a towel taped over his face because he was spitting on everyone with whom he came in contact.

Charles Renschler, 20, of 717 Ellsworth St., struck a pole on North Cook Street, 70 feet north of Sheridan Street, Warsaw, about 11:27 p.m. Monday.

Witnesses told police Renschler's car was on two wheels when it rounded the corner at the intersection of Sheridan and Cook streets. Renschler then reportedly lost control of the vehicle and struck a pole. Police said Renschler struck his head on the windshield and suffered a cut to his forehead and other injuries. The steering wheel of the car was bent over when Renschler, who was apparently unrestrained, was thrown into it.

When police arrived, Renschler allegedly became agitated and spat in the face of at least three Warsaw police officers. He also reportedly spat on medics who responded to the scene and on personnel at Kosciusko Community Hospital after he was transported there. An officer taped the towel over Renschler's mouth so he wouldn't spit on anyone else while receiving medical attention. He also had to be sedated.

A blood test and drug screen were performed on Renschler, who reportedly had a blood-alcohol level of .201 percent and tested positive for marijuana use.

After being treated at KCH, Renschler was taken to the Kosciusko County Jail, where he was booked on charges of driving while intoxicated, public intoxication, illegal possession or consumption of alcohol by a minor and six counts of battery by bodily waste.

He is being held without bond.