Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo, one of the more high-profile candidates aiming for the Los Angeles City Council seat held by Councilmember Kevin de León, was arrested Friday, Nov. 3, on suspicion of driving under the influence.
That leaves open the question of what impact her arrest might have on the 43-year-old Democrat’s chances of winning in the highly contested Council District 14 race. About a dozen people have indicated interest in challenging de Leon, who is seeking reelection despite criticism over the past year for his role in a racist backroom meeting that was secretly taped and leaked to media.
As a state lawmaker, Carrillo entered the race with the benefit of name recognition. Through Sept. 30, she had raised more money than any other candidate for the 14th Council District except Assemblymember Miguel Santiago, according to the city’s ethics commission.
Carrillo issued a statement following her arrest, acknowledging that she had been involved “in a traffic incident involving parked vehicles.”
“Thankfully, no one was harmed, and I have been cooperating with law enforcement. As a public servant, I am aware that I must adhere to a higher standard that demands personal accountability for my conduct and I accept responsibility for my actions. I sincerely apologize to my family, constituents, colleagues and staff for any actions of mine that have fallen short of that expectation,” Carrillo stated, adding that she intends to seek help and support.
“As I do so, I remain dedicated to my family, my constituents and the community that I grew up in and am proud to represent,” she said.
Carrillo was taken into custody after officers went to the 6200 block of Monterey Road on a report of a traffic collision involving a motorist who had run into parked vehicles, to Sgt. Hector Guzman of the Los Angeles Police Department said.
Carrillo was booked on suspicion of DUI, according to the LAPD. Jail records show she was arrested around 1:30 a.m….
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