Hennepin County Sheriff Accused of DUI

(KNSI) – The Hennepin County Sheriff could face charges after allegedly driving under the influence and getting hurt in a rollover crash near Alexandria. The Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety says deputies were called to the crash about five miles east of Alexandria on Interstate 94 around 2:30 on Wednesday morning.

Officials identified the driver as Hennepin County Sheriff David Hutchinson of Bloomington. Hutchinson suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken by ambulance to Alomere Hospital. The Department of Public Safety says it’s believed he was wearing a seat belt. Hutchinson was the only occupant of the vehicle, which Hennepin County owns.

Douglas County Sheriff’s deputies suspected impairment. A Minnesota State Trooper obtained a warrant and collected a urine sample from Hutchinson to determine impairment. Officials say taking a sample is standard procedure when impairment is suspected in a crash, and a person is taken to the hospital.

Charges are pending based on the results and a review of the case by the Douglas County Attorney’s office.

Sheriff Hutchinson released a state on Wednesday:

“Early this morning, I was involved in single-car crash in Douglas County near Alexandria, MN. I was taken to the hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and the Minnesota State Patrol are investigating this crash as a DUI.
I made the inexcusable decision to drive after drinking alcohol, and I am deeply sorry. As the Chief Law Enforcement Officer in Hennepin County, I am held to a higher standard. I regret the choice I made and apologize to the citizens I serve, the staff I work with, and the friends and family who support me.

I take full responsibility for my actions and am prepared to accept the consequences of my poor decision. I am relieved that no one else was injured in the crash. I will immediately address my personal issues surrounding alcohol and seek the help I need to continue to serve the people of Hennepin County.” – Sheriff Dave Hutchinson.

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