DRUNK BEHIND THE WHEEL? PATERSON COUNCILMAN CRASHES AMID DWI ALLEGATIONS
JerseyTalks StaffPaterson Councilman Luis Velez is facing public scrutiny following a car crash in the early hours of Monday, May 12, that has led to allegations of drunk driving.
The collision occurred around 1:43 a.m. at the intersection of 12th and Madison Avenues. The other driver, Knolaisha Washington, alleges that Velez ran a red light and struck her vehicle. She also claimed he appeared intoxicated, citing his unsteady demeanor and slurred speech.
Video footage circulating on social media shows Velez at the scene, with some witnesses suggesting he was impaired. Velez denies drinking that night, saying the disorientation was caused by the impact of the crash and the airbag deploying. He noted that no breathalyzer test was conducted and claimed there was āno need.ā
In a public statement, Velez confirmed his involvement in the crash and stressed his cooperation with the investigation. He urged the public not to rush to judgment, calling social media claims ācompletely false,ā and stated, āNo one is above the law, including myself.ā
The Paterson Police Department, under the oversight of the New Jersey Attorney Generalās Office, has confirmed an active investigation. No charges have been filed as of now.
The incident has sparked community debate, with some calling for transparency and accountability. The investigationās outcome may have a significant impact on Velezās political future.
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