North Dakota Politician Threatens Police During Drunk Driving Arrest

A North Dakota politician was arrested for drunk driving after a Christmas party and made racist and homophobic remarks towards police officers during the incident. Rep. Nico Rios, a Williston Republican lawmaker, was charged with DUI and refusing to provide a chemical test, according to the Bismarck Tribune.

Arrest and Verbal Abuse

Rios was pulled over for failing to stay in his lane, and he became verbally abusive, using homophobic and racially discriminatory language towards the officers. Bodycam footage captured Rios attempting to pass off his business card instead of providing his license and registration.

Refusal to Cooperate

During the arrest, Rios refused to take a breathalyzer test and told the officers that he lived just two blocks away from where he was pulled over. He threatened the officers, saying they would regret picking on him because they didn’t know who he was.

Homophobic and Racist Remarks

Rios continued his offensive behavior while in the backseat of the police car. He directed homophobic slurs towards one of the officers and made derogatory comments about the officer’s English accent. Rios also made false claims about immigrants in England.

Apology and Consequences

After the release of the bodycam footage, Rios issued an apology for his actions and stated that he would seek appropriate help to prevent similar incidents in the future. The North Dakota Democrat-NPL Party called for Rios’ resignation, while the State Republican Party condemned his behavior.

Legal Proceedings

Rios is facing charges of DUI and refusing a chemical test, both of which are misdemeanors under state law. He is scheduled for a pretrial conference on February 5th in municipal court.

Despite the controversy surrounding his arrest, Rios’ actions do not reflect the values of the NDGOP, according to State Republican Party Executive Director Andrew Nyhus.

Source: Bismarck Tribune