Henderson City Attorney arrested for DUI www.privateofficer.com

 

HENDERSON, Nev.May 26 2011 — Henderson City Attorney Elizabeth Macias Quillin, whose office prosecutes criminals, had her own booking photograph taken Monday.

Henderson Police arrested her Monday afternoon in Green Valley. Police say she was trying to turn from Paseo Verde Parkway on to Carnegie Drive. She lost control of her Lexus SUV and ran off the road – jumping the curb, hitting a fire hydrant, a boulder, and two trees.

Henderson Mayor Andy Hafen on Tuesday addressed concerns about Quillin’s arrest.

“On the afternoon of May 23, 2011, we were made aware that the City Attorney, Elizabeth Quillin, had been arrested by the Henderson Police Department on DUI-related charges,” he said.

According to her arrest report, Quillin reeked of alcohol. Although her speech was slurred, she didn’t mince words. “Yes, I am f—ed up,” she allegedly told officers.

“Obviously, due to the seriousness and sensitivity of this situation, there will be a thorough investigation, both criminally and internally,” Hafen said.

One woman who saw the accident stopped her car to see if the driver was okay. The Lexus then struck a tree before suddenly backing up, nearly striking the witness. Quillin sideswiped that witness’ parked car.

The city attorney’s SUV sustained heavy damage. Witnesses say Quillin got out and started walking away. She didn’t get far. Police quickly apprehended her and took her to the Henderson Detention Center.

Those who use the sidewalks near the accident scene are relieved no one was hurt after Quillin’s dangerous decision to drink and drive.

“It’s very busy, anywhere up Paseo Verde and this area,” said Henderson resident Shane Rader.

“Wow, I’m kind of speechless. That’s a bummer that somebody with such power and setting an example for our community is doing like that,” said Henderson resident Kristin Little.

Quillin was arrested on charges of drunk driving, leaving the scene of an accident, and having an open container in a vehicle. A near-empty bottle of Barefoot chardonnay was in her vehicle at the time of the accident.

In a statement Quillin said, “I would like to apologize to the Mayor, City Council, my colleagues, family and friends for my misconduct and assume full responsibility for my actions. I am seeking immediate treatment from an inpatient facility and ask that I be allowed this time of privacy in order to address my underlying illness.”

Quillin is scheduled to appear in court May 25. She has been placed on administrative leave. She was appointed as City Attorney in 2009.