A Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office deputy named Adrienne Seay was arrested on New Year’s Day after refusing to take a breath test at a DWI checkpoint created by New Mexico State Police. Seay was questioned by court documents after alcohol was smelled inside her vehicle and admitted to drinking before driving. She performed poorly on standardized field sobriety tests and was arrested for DUI. The Sheriff of Bernalillo County released a statement expressing his deep concern and apologized to the community for the incident, affirming the department’s dedication to combating DWI.
The refusal of a Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office deputy to take a breath test for intoxicated driving after being stopped at a checkpoint by New Mexico State Police has put the department in the spotlight. Deputy Adrienne Seay was arrested and admitted to drinking before driving, but refused to take the breath test or provide breath samples during the investigation. The Sheriff of Bernalillo County expressed deep concern about the incident and offered sincere apologies to the community. The incident highlights the importance of law enforcement officers setting an example in combating DWI, especially given New Mexico’s alarming statistics on DWI fatalities.
This incident has placed the deputy involved on administrative leave pending an internal investigation, highlighting the serious nature of the allegations. The Sheriff’s Office is committed to upholding the law without prejudice or favor and reaffirms its dedication to turning the tide against DWI in the community. The professionalism of the New Mexico State Police in handling the matter has also been acknowledged, emphasizing the importance of holding all individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their position.
