Politics & Government
Dwyer Admits Using 'Alcohol to Cope,' Enters Treatment Program
In a message to his Facebook supporters, Del. Don Dwyer admitted that his alcohol usage contributed to an August 2012 boat crash on the Magothy River.
Embattled Del. Don Dwyer (R-Pasadena) has admitted to having a drinking problem and has voluntarily undergone treatment.
"In the past year I have faced both personal and professional challenges that were extremely difficult for me. As a result, and regrettably so, I turned to alcohol to cope," Dwyer wrote in a Facebook post. "As many of you know, this culminated in a serious boat accident in August when the boat I was operating was struck by another vessel."
Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) charged Dwyer in December with operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol in connection with the Aug. 22 crash. The accident injured seven people—including Dwyer and four children.
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NRP reported Dwyer's blood alcohol content on the night of the crash was 0.24—three times the legal limit of 0.08.
"I would like to tell you that in order to prevent a prolonged problem with drinking as a coping mechanism; I voluntarily entered and completed an alcohol intervention program," Dwyer wrote. "Additionally, I am committed to attending extensive aftercare counseling, as well as AA meetings."
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If convicted, Dwyer faces a maximum penalty of $1,000 fine and/or one year in prison. Mark Harbin, the driver of the other boat, was charged with negligent operation of a vessel.
Despite the looming criminal and civil cases against Dwyer, the Pasadena Republican wrote that he has no plans to resign from office.
"I know you have been shocked and disappointed as a result of how I conducted myself. I don’t know if I am to be forgiven, but I certainly hope to regain your confidence," Dwyer wrote. "This Session I am committed to renewing my focus to defending personal liberty, property rights and second amendment rights."
To view the message in its entirety on Facebook, click here.
Related stories:
- Dwyer Charged in August Boat Accident
- Police Still Interviewing Witnesses in Boat Accident
- No Charges Yet in Boat Accident Involving Dwyer
- Dwyer Thanks Supporters on Facebook After Boat Crash
- BLOG: What Should Dwyer Do Now?
- Republican Central Committee Releases Statement on Boat Crash
- Dwyer Admits Drinking Before Boat Crash
- UPDATE: Multiple People Hospitalized After Boat Accident
