Last month, while on the Council’s annual recess, I made a serious mistake. I decided to drink in Cle Elum, not far from property I own in Eastern Washington. I then endeavored to drive back the seven miles to my vacation property in rural Kittitas County on a dark and rainy night.

I temporarily lost control of my vehicle that night and both the car and I ended up in a ditch. My consumption of alcohol that night was clearly a factor. No other vehicles and no other persons were involved in the collision. Shortly after, a neighbor who happened upon the accident gave me a ride home.

Less than two hours later, police arrived at my property, and I candidly told them what had happened and why.

Although no one else was involved or hurt, I make no excuses for the decision I made that night. It was wrong.

That’s why I pled guilty today to Driving Under the Influence in a Kittitas County courtroom, and why I will now do everything I can to make amends for the very poor decision I made that night.

I want to commend the professionalism of the police and the local prosecutor in this situation. They do their jobs well, and every day we owe them our thanks.

One day soon, I hope to be able to help others both in and beyond public life who have struggled, or are still struggling, with this challenge. For now, it’s important for me to focus on my family, my job and to take the steps necessary to ensure this never happens again.

Lastly, I want to deeply apologize to my family, constituents, colleagues and to anyone who has placed their trust in me. I ask for your forgiveness for my actions and I pledge to work tirelessly to regain your confidence in me.