Dentist nabbed with 100 canisters of laughing gas in car after police chase: ‘He has a problem’

A Troubling Tale of Addiction and Consequences

A recent incident in Houston has brought attention to the struggles of addiction, even among professionals. Christopher Michael Pedlar, a 39-year-old dentist, made headlines after being arrested for possession of nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas. The story took a darker turn when Pedlar admitted to using the substance while driving, putting himself and others at risk. This incident is a stark reminder of how addiction can affect anyone, regardless of their background or profession.

The Incident and Arrest

On Saturday, Pedlar was spotted by a patrol car driving at 44 mph in a 30 mph zone on West 19th Street in Houston. When officers attempted to pull him over, Pedlar led them on a brief chase before finally stopping about half a mile later. Upon his arrest, police discovered 107 canisters of nitrous oxide in his car. Pedlar reportedly confessed to using the gas while driving, revealing a troubling pattern of behavior. He was charged with eluding police and possession of volatile chemicals, marking his second arrest in recent months related to his alleged addiction.

A History of Struggles

This was not Pedlar’s first run-in with the law over his addiction. In October, he was charged with interfering with a public servant and possession of a volatile chemical. At the time, he was released on a $5,000 bond and ordered to undergo treatment. Despite these measures, Pedlar’s addiction appears to have persisted, leading to his latest arrest. The recurrence of his behavior raises concerns about the effectiveness of the support systems in place and the challenges of overcoming addiction.

The Impact on His Career and Community

The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners has remained tight-lipped about the case, stating that it does not comment on open complaints or investigations. However, the implications for Pedlar’s dental practice are clear. His actions have raised questions about his fitness to practice dentistry, particularly given the potential risks to patients if his addiction affects his judgment or ability to perform his duties. The incident has also sparked a broader conversation about the need for support systems for professionals struggling with addiction.

A Call for Compassion and Action

Houston Police Constable Alan Rosen described the situation as “very sad,” noting that Pedlar’s admission of his problem highlights the complexity of addiction. “He admitted it,” Rosen said. “He said he has a problem.” While Pedlar’s actions have consequences, his case also serves as a reminder that addiction is a disease that requires treatment and understanding. It is a call to action for communities to provide accessible resources and support for those struggling with addiction.

Moving Forward

Pedlar was arraigned Monday and released on a $10,000 bond. As he faces charges related to his addiction, the community will be watching to see how this situation is handled. The case of Christopher Pedlar is a poignant reminder of the challenges of addiction and the importance of addressing it with both compassion and accountability. It is a story that is still unfolding, but one that offers valuable lessons about the need for support and understanding in overcoming addiction.