Chicago police officers from the 20th District responded to a late-night crash involving multiple parked cars, only to find themselves dealing with an uncooperative driver. The woman behind the wheel, later identified as Cook County Board of Review Commissioner Samantha Steele, refused to comply with basic requests, repeatedly insisting on waiting for her attorney. Officers attempted to de-escalate the situation, but Steele continued to resist, leading to her eventual arrest for driving under the influence (DUI).
According to police reports, officers arrived on the scene to find Steele’s vehicle had struck two parked cars. Concerned for her well-being, officers asked if she needed medical attention and began requesting her driver’s license and proof of insurance. However, Steele refused to provide the requested documentation, instead attempting to contact her attorney while officers repeatedly informed her that compliance was required under state law.
The situation escalated when Steele refused to exit her vehicle despite multiple lawful orders from officers. Video footage from the scene shows officers patiently explaining her legal obligations, yet Steele remained defiant, citing her elected position as justification for her noncompliance. After refusing field sobriety tests and exhibiting signs of alcohol consumption, Steele was placed under arrest and transported for further evaluation.
