Senator Mike Crapo apologizes for DUI arrest

By Mike Vogel

CREATED Dec. 24, 2012

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  • Senator Mike Crapo is apologizing Monday for his drunken driving arrest. It happened over the weekend outside of Washington D.C. in Alexandria, Virginia. It's the first time the Idaho senator has been in trouble with the law, ever. As most people kn Video by IdahoOnYourSide.com

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Senator Mike Crapo is apologizing Monday for his drunken driving arrest. It happened over the weekend outside of Washington D.C. in Alexandria, Virginia. It's the first time the Idaho senator has been in trouble with the law, ever.

As most people know, the senator is Mormon. So, it comes as a pretty big surprise that he was arrested for DUI, since members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints don't drink at all. The 61 year old is a three time senator.

United States Senator Michael Dean Crapo was arrested over the weekend for driving under the influence. It happened Sunday morning at 12:45 a.m. in Alexandria, Virginia. The officer pulled Senator Crapo over for running a red light, and quickly knew something else was wrong.

“He noticed the vehicle run through a red light and run through a traffic signal. He noticed the smell of a alcoholic beverage on the senator and asked him to step out of the vehicle to do some field sobriety tests, at which time the senator cooperated,” said Jody Donaldson, Alexandria Police Department, Public Information Officer.

Not just once, but twice, Senator Crapo failed.

“At that time he was placed under arrest by the officer for driving under the influence. He was transported to the Alexandria Adult Detention center, where he actually blew a .11 (BAC) on the breathalyzer, in Virginia .08 BAC is the limit.

Senator Crapo released the following statement Monday:

"I am deeply sorry for the actions that resulted in this circumstance. I made a mistake for which I apologize to my family, my Idaho constituents and any others who have put their trust in me. I accept total responsibility and will deal with whatever penalty comes my way in this matter. I will also undertake measures to ensure that this circumstance is never repeated. "

Alexandria Police say Senator Crapo was alone in the car when he was pulled over. He has been charged with one count of DUI, which is a misdemeanor. Crapo was released on a $1,000 bond, and has a Jan. 4, 2013, court date in Alexandria.