A shocking scene unfolded on Chicago’s Kennedy Expressway as Maywood Mayor Nathaniel George Booker was found stopped in a traffic lane, seemingly unconscious behind the wheel of his vehicle. The incident, which caused significant traffic delays, led to a police intervention that escalated into a DUI investigation and arrest.
The incident began when multiple 911 callers reported a vehicle stopped in the middle of the highway, obstructing traffic. Upon arrival, officers from the Chicago Police Department and emergency responders attempted to wake the driver, later identified as Mayor Nathaniel Booker. Initially unresponsive, Booker eventually regained consciousness but appeared disoriented.
Bodycam footage from the officers captured the exchange, showing Booker struggling to comprehend the situation. Officers repeatedly asked if he needed medical assistance, but his responses were incoherent. He admitted to consuming alcohol at a fundraiser but insisted he was not intoxicated. Officers noted the telltale signs of impairment, including slurred speech, glassy eyes, and an inability to follow instructions.
As the situation progressed, officers urged Booker to exit his vehicle for his safety and that of others. However, he resisted getting into the police car, expressing distrust and repeatedly asking whether he should call an attorney. Despite officers’ attempts to reason with him, Booker remained noncompliant, prompting further sobriety tests.
During a field sobriety test, officers observed multiple indicators of impairment, including difficulty maintaining balance and failing an eye-tracking test. When asked to take a breathalyzer, Booker refused and instead demanded legal counsel. Following protocol, officers placed him under arrest for suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) and obstructing traffic.
Legal Note:
Following the arrest, Booker’s driver’s license was suspended. However, he later announced at a village board meeting that the suspension had been rescinded due to insufficient evidence supporting the DUI charge. Despite this, the arrest sparked political controversy in Maywood, with some residents supporting the mayor’s tenure and others questioning his conduct.
The release of the bodycam footage fueled further debate, with Booker alleging that its publication was politically motivated as he sought re-election. Meanwhile, law enforcement officials emphasized that DUI laws apply to all individuals, regardless of their political standing or position in office.
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