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A Democratic lawmaker has been arrested for driving under the influence, with police body camera footage capturing the alarming incident. Connecticut state representative Aundré Bumgardner displayed signs of impairment during a roadside sobriety test, as authorities observed his eyes were red and glossy.
On Sunday morning, Bumgardner was apprehended and charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated along with reckless driving, as documented in a police report acquired by Fox News Digital.
The office of Bumgardner did not provide immediate comments when contacted for a statement.
In a statement released on Monday, Bumgardner acknowledged his actions, saying, “Last night, I was cited for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence. I take full responsibility for my actions and deeply regret this mistake. I am grateful that no one was harmed and that no accident occurred.”
Earlier in the night, Bumgardner, age 30, had informed officers that he may have “struck something” in the road while returning home from an event with constituents, according to the police report.
Police noticed that one of the front tires on Bumgardner’s vehicle was flat and barely stayed on the rim. Additionally, he exhibited signs of intoxication, including having a noticeable odor of alcohol on his breath when he spoke.
The report further indicated that Bumgardner appeared nervous and exhibited a slight slur in his speech. Initially, he denied having consumed any alcohol when questioned by officers.
The body camera footage from the incident, obtained by Fox News Digital, reveals Bumgardner struggling to complete several field sobriety tests while a woman, later confirmed by authorities to be his wife, slept in the backseat of the vehicle. In the footage, he can be seen stumbling and failing to follow the officer’s instructions during the tests.
Specifically, Bumgardner attempted a standard “walk and turn” test four times but ultimately failed. After several unsuccessful attempts at a test that required him to stand on one foot, he remarked to the officer, “I’m sorry sir. I’m not much of a balancer.”
Following the failed sobriety tests, Bumgardner was placed under arrest, handcuffed, and taken to the Groton Police Department, where he reached out to his attorney. Meanwhile, officers transported his wife home, as she had remained asleep throughout the encounter.
During the booking process, Bumgardner expressed discomfort about the officer’s body camera, stating it felt invasive. He also appeared evasive when asked to sign paperwork that outlined his rights, as noted in the police report.
After the incident, Bumgardner’s driver’s license was revoked for 24 hours, and he has been scheduled to appear in court next week.
In a separate incident that has captured attention, Bumgardner was removed from his leadership roles and committee assignments until further notice, confirmed by State Rep. Matt Ritter, speaker of the Connecticut House of Representatives.
Ritter expressed disappointment in Bumgardner’s actions, stating, “I am disheartened after hearing of Rep. Bumgardner’s arrest for driving under the influence. I have spoken with Aundré, and he understands he must take full responsibility and work every day to regain the trust of his constituents and colleagues. Aundré is a dedicated and compassionate young man, and it is clear from our conversation that he acknowledges this serious mistake.”
Bumgardner was re-elected to the House in 2022, serving as the assistant majority leader of the House Democratic caucus. He also sits on several important committees, including Finance, Environment, Energy, and Transportation.
In his apology, Bumgardner recognized the gravity of the situation, stating: “I am committed to taking the necessary steps to ensure this never occurs again. To my family, friends, colleagues, and the residents of the 41st District, whom I am honored to serve, I sincerely apologize for my actions and the disappointment I have caused.”
This incident has raised significant concerns regarding the conduct of public officials and the ongoing issues surrounding drinking and driving.
As details emerge, constituents are left wondering about the potential ramifications for Bumgardner’s political career. The handling of this situation will be closely monitored by both political parties and the local community.
