California Lawmaker Wendy Carrillo Arrested for DUI After Claiming She ‘Sneezed’ While Driving

California Assembly member Wendy Carrillo, who is currently running for a seat on the LA City Council, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) after a crash in Los Angeles.

Carrillo, 43, was taken into custody, registering a blood alcohol level over double the legal limit. She claimed that she ‘sneezed’ and lost control of the car, leading to the collision.

Arrest and Sobriety Test

Video footage shows Carrillo swaying and staggering as she was arrested. Residents at the scene described her as intoxicated, mentioning the smell of alcohol and slurred speech.

She performed a field sobriety test, which she failed. One of the officers had to catch her arm to prevent a fall, and she appeared to struggle throughout the test. Due to her status as a ‘dignitary,’ the officers allowed her to finish the test in private.

Carrillo’s Background

Wendy Carrillo, a Democrat who has served in the California legislature since 2017, has been seen working with Governor Gavin Newsom on various occasions.

She fled the El Salvadorian Civil War at a young age and became the first former illegal immigrant to be elected to California’s State Assembly.

Apology and Legal Proceedings

Carrillo later apologized for the crash but did not address the allegations of DUI. She acknowledged her responsibility and expressed her intention to seek help and support. She is due to appear in court on December 1.

Other Incidents and Reactions

This incident follows the DUI arrests of two other California Democrats in the past six months. State Senator Dave Min and City Councilmember Clarissa Cervantes both faced DUI charges.

Republican Assemblymember Bill Essayli introduced a bill to temporarily ban state lawmakers with DUI convictions from operating state pool cars, but it was rejected by the Democrat-majority California legislature.

Carrillo’s arrest has sparked calls for her resignation and restrictions on her use of state cars.

Breaking News

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn