Sheriff Claimed Someone Else Was Driving In DWI Crash: Report

MINNESOTA — New details from a search warrant show that Hennepin County Sheriff David Hutchinson claimed someone else was driving his car in the moments after his crash in December.

Hutchinson was sentenced after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor DWI in the Dec. 8 crash. He was given two years of probation and has to pay $610 in various fines and fees.

Since the crash, Hutchinson has publicly apologized for the crime. However, on the night of the incident, Hutchinson "denied being the driver of the vehicle to both witnesses at the scene and deputies upon their arrival," according to a search warrant reviewed by the Star Tribune.

Hutchinson was driving, and his blood alcohol content was .13, according to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

The crash happened at about 2:30 a.m., authorities said. Douglas County Sheriff's deputies responded to the crash scene and suspected impairment.

Hutchinson sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported by ambulance to Alomere Hospital. He was wearing a seat belt, authorities said.

"As Sheriff, I made the wellness of my staff a priority; however, I didn't practice what I preached," Hutchinson said in a statement following his guilty plea.

"This incident is a wake-up call for me. I understand the seriousness of my actions, for which I take full responsibility."

Hutchinson said he is now enrolled in an outpatient treatment program to address his issues with alcohol and overall health.

"This is the first step in the road toward recovery and regaining the trust of the people I work with and the residents of Hennepin County whom I serve," he added. "I have returned to work and will focus on my duties as Sheriff."