A New Year’s Eve incident involving a former professional baseball player has led to a series of legal challenges for a Pennsylvania man. Kevin Zelna, 37, from Scranton, is set to face court proceedings following his arrest for alleged impaired driving and possession of crack cocaine with ex-MLB outfielder Len Dykstra as a passenger in his vehicle.
During a preliminary hearing, Judge Randy Schmalzle determined there was sufficient evidence to advance the charges against Zelna, which include driving under the influence and possession of crack cocaine and a glass pipe, to the county court. Zelna and his attorney opted not to comment post-hearing.
Upcoming Hearing for Dykstra
Len Dykstra, also from Scranton and aged 63, was slated for a hearing regarding similar charges of possessing crack cocaine and a glass pipe. However, this has been delayed. Dykstra’s legal representative maintains that the drugs and paraphernalia do not belong to him.
Testimony from the Arresting Officer
Assistant District Attorney Dave Marra brought forward state Trooper Kody Nowicki as the sole witness to recount the events of the arrest. Nowicki testified that he noticed Zelna’s vehicle swerving on Route 507 after exiting Interstate 84, with a registration check revealing a “dead tag,” indicating an invalid license plate.
Despite the trooper’s attempt to signal Zelna to stop using his police lights and siren, Zelna delayed pulling over. Upon eventual compliance, Nowicki approached the vehicle, detecting a strong alcohol odor from the driver’s side.
Claims of Sovereignty
According to Nowicki, Zelna repeatedly refused to provide a driver’s license or vehicle documentation, claiming his status as a “sovereign citizen,” a group that deems current governmental systems illegitimate. With further resistance from Zelna, Nowicki and additional officers were required to forcibly remove him from the vehicle, an action that took around 20 to 30 seconds but resulted in no injuries.
Signs of Intoxication
Nowicki noted that Zelna exhibited signs of intoxication, including “glossy, bloodshot eyes” and dilated pupils. After detaining Zelna, Nowicki prepared to arrange for the vehicle to be towed due to its invalid registration and inspection sticker.
At this point, the passenger, Dykstra, requested his belongings. However, Dykstra was unable to produce identification or a credit card, claiming Zelna had taken them. A search of the glove compartment by a trooper unearthed a small satchel containing the pipe and crack cocaine.
Legal Proceedings
Zelna is facing a multitude of charges, including driving under the influence, possession of a controlled substance, resisting arrest, and various vehicle-related offenses. Meanwhile, Dykstra is charged with possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.
Currently, Zelna has been released on $10,000 bail, whereas Dykstra has been released without bail.
