Redding Man Arrested for Allegedly Driving While High on Nitrous
REDDING, CA — “On March 1, 2026, at approximately 1:59 p.m., officers with the Redding Police Department responded to a report of a male driver inhaling an unknown substance inside a vehicle in the 1900 block of 9th Street.
The reporting party described the vehicle as a newer burgundy Toyota Prius with a California temporary license plate. Prior to officers’ arrival, the vehicle had been observed driving on 9th Street before parking near the 1900 block.
Upon arrival, officers contacted the driver, identified as Chan Saechin (40 years) of Redding, seated in the driver’s seat with a black metal bottle featuring a plastic mouthpiece, commonly used for inhaling flavored nitrous oxide. Despite repeated commands from officers, Saechin continued to inhale nitrous oxide, lost and regained consciousness, and placed the vehicle into drive, creating a significant safety risk.
To prevent potential harm, officers positioned patrol vehicles to block the vehicle and deployed spike strips as a precaution. After continued noncompliance, officers broke the driver-side window to remove Saechin safely. During removal, the vehicle rolled forward and collided with a patrol vehicle.
Inside the vehicle, officers located four bottles labeled ‘Exotic Whip’ flavored nitrous oxide. Saechin exhibited clear signs of intoxication and was transported to the Shasta County Jail where he was booked for driving under the influence, resisting arrest, possession of nitrous oxide with the intent to get high, and a probation violation.
The Redding Police Department reminds the public that inhaling nitrous oxide can result in sudden loss of consciousness and serious injury. Operating a motor vehicle while impaired by any substance poses a serious risk to the driver and the community.”
