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DA Speaks To 11 News About Drinking Allegations Save Email Print
Posted: 2:03 PM May 7, 2008
 Last Updated: 7:15 AM May 8, 2008
 Reporter: KKTV/Associated Press
57 comments
D.A. Reacts to Drinking on the Job
Newsome Not Facing Criminal Charges
D.A. Talks About Drinking Video
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The District Attorney for El Paso County is now reacting to 11 News about the allegations resulting from a media report apparently showing him drinking beer and then driving home in a county-owned vehicle.

The report from a Colorado Springs TV station claimed John Newsome drank eight beers in a little over five hours. The report also alleges that Newsome left one bar, returned to his office for a meeting, and then went to a second bar for more beers.

John Newsome tells us he didn't sleep last night. He said he's supposed to be setting an example and he's sorry, but he wouldn’t delve into the details of the video.

"I'm not going to argue about the reports and the things I disagree with, I understand I need to set an example," Newsome said."

"I made a tremendous mistake and it won't happen again. I want to say that any trust to the public I lost, I hope to regain with hard work."

He said right now his main priority is making sure that the D.A.’s office stays focused, they are currently handling 40-thousand cases.

"We are trying hard to not it interfere with the prosecution of cases, that’s our top priority," Newsome said.

He said he has no plans to step-down and he hasn't heard of any possible disciplinary action against him.

He did deny having any kind of drinking problem. He did tell 11 News that he paid for the beers with his money, not tax dollars.

11 News also spoke with the acting El Paso County Attorney, Bill Louis. He says since Newsome is an elected official, it would up to the people who elected him to take action.

Newsome says he does still plan to run for re-election in the fall but he acknowledges this doesn't look good.

"The perception of wrong doing is as bad as wrong doing itself and for that I certainly apologize and I should be setting a standard,” Newsome said.

Newsome is the District Attorney for the 4th Judicial District, which represents El Paso and Teller counties, he's been in that role for 3 and a half years.

As for driving a county vehicle, Bill Louis tells us if a county employee is negligent while driving a county car, El Paso County as well as Teller County are liable, since Newsome represents both counties.
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Posted by: Etta Location: Colorado Springs on May 10, 2008 at 03:56 PM
Newsome is not one of our better D.A. He is not even in the same league with Robert Russell. His drinking is the tip of his hypocrisy. The morale of his staff is horrible. They constantly being threatened with being fired. Long ago issued an order that anyone who worked for him who criticized the office in any way would be fired. Same thing if you ever gave the D.A.'s office manual to anyone outside the office. The people in El Paso COunty are not being well represented b/c Newsome can't hire and keep good attorneys at his office. ANyone who is any good quits.
Posted by: Michael Location: Colorado Springs on May 10, 2008 at 10:55 AM
The laws in the US must be changed. Since when has alcohol stopped being a drug? Its the most abused drug out there, few people are fine with their one drink, but how many people really 'stop' after one. Our society is going down the drain and I believe it to be caused by alcohol. Problem is that it is so socially acceptable, everyone does it. We celebrate 21st birthdays, every TV show has it in as a daily drink. Kids grow up watching their parents drinking. I say its time for change. Think about the number of people in our jails who are their because of being drunk when they; drove, beat their spouse, killed someone, stole something. Most people in the justice system are there because of some kind of alcohol related event. Solution for saving my society: Outlaw alcohol consumption in public places. People should only be allowed to drink behind close doors of their own houses. Alcohol should be better regulated. Its the most abused drug, but you don't need a prescription?????
Posted by: db Location: Colorado Springs on May 9, 2008 at 11:58 PM
I believe this guy had something like 130 ounces of beer ... almost 11 beers in four to five hours. He was drunk. A DA should be held to a high standard. If he walks, so should every other DUI case ... atleast first offense cases.
Posted by: Doc Location: Colorado Springs on May 9, 2008 at 03:58 PM
As the old saying goes, where there is smoke, there is fire. How many times has the D.A. consumed alcohol and climbed in behind the wheel before being caught on camera? I would bet it has been many. As interviews tell us, most people who drink and drive do it many times before being caught. Why was Channel 11 watching and taping what the DA consumed and his comings and goings? I would bet they had been tipped off because of the DA's previous outings. Under the circumstances, the DA needs to resign.
Posted by: Jack Location: Security on May 9, 2008 at 08:42 AM
If he wants to take responsibility, he needs to suspend his license, donate $4000 to MADD and volunteer a night in the jail. Its only fair. I wonder how many times he has been stopped for DUI, and cohersed the cop to not pursue charges. You people who are defending him need to understand he is a powerful man. He could fire any cop who arrested him, and quietly put the case away. If he has any integrity, he will at the very least suspend his own license. If not resign. I will not leave this case alone, because he is the District Attorney, and if you don't understand how serious this charge is, maybe you shouldn't even comment on it.
Posted by: Junie Location: Colorado Springs on May 8, 2008 at 11:54 PM
How sad and disturbing, but now C/S will see how our system WORKS! Was at a BAR, left for a meeting and back to a BAR. WOW!I wonder if my BOSS would allow that. Hiring? Where do I apply? Poor Baby, didn't sleep. Liar! If true, now you know how the families feel after you convicted their loved ones. You're sorry? You're right you're sorry. SORRY you got caught! Tremendous mistake and it won't happen again. Deny having a drinking problem. Ya right, that's what every alcoholic says. You said, right now your main priority is making sure that the D.A.’s office stays focused, they are currently handling 40-thousand cases. OPPS! Wrong! Forgot one, 4001. How nice, admitted drinking and YOU PAID for your "beers BUT, you were on TAX DOLLARS TIME! You say you'll run in Nov. Remember Betty Beady? Be a man, not the bully you are. Do you know what morals are? Suffer the consequences like everyone. Thank God I'm not in your "group of people" you scratch my back and I'll scratch yours. RESIGN!
Posted by: Pam Location: Co Springs on May 8, 2008 at 09:59 PM
There is nothing to prove that he was DUI - there was no blood alcohol test. What upsets me is the media that video'd this. They witnessed the drinking and subsequent driving and are implying he was DUI - yet they never stopped him from getting behind the wheel or notified the police. That is just as irresponsible and had there been an accident resulting in damage or injury - they should have been charged with contributing due to their lack of action. As citizens, they had the responsibility of stepping in.....yet they chose to do otherwise
Posted by: Mike on May 8, 2008 at 03:51 PM
Leave the guy alone quit making such a big deal out of this. Who Cares!!!! He is a human being like everyone else and he is a grown man if he wants to have beer after work then let him. He had a total of I believe 6-7 beers in five hours he was not intoxicated falling down being an idiot. Having friends that are police officers they do the same thing and they are not looked down upon. Everyone deals with work stress different and they need to leave this poor man alone. As someone who works in the field and also works in a bar it is not an uncommon sight to see police officers, probation officers, parole officers, judges whatever they may be in the bar having a drink. They are grown adults get off his back.
Posted by: Judy Location: Colorado Springs on May 8, 2008 at 03:44 PM
How many times have you heard a person charged with a DUI that they were "sorry and it wouldn't happen again?" Even though the DA was not charged with a DUI, it is obvious he doesn't practice what he preaches. If he needed assistance, he has a huge staff that could have/would have helped him. He needs to step down immediately. How many other people on his staff could be doing the same thing? Think about it.
Posted by: Dan Location: Guillaume on May 8, 2008 at 02:56 PM
What a hypocrit! Of the 40,000 cases his office is dealing with how many are DUI's? I cannot believe anyone can be so bold as to say he is sorry, he payed for the beers with his own money and it will not happen again. How many times has this happened before? I am sure he will say it has never happened before which will further show what a liar he is. This is an elected official who is supposed to be representing the people of El Paso County. I know of much better people than this DA that have paid dearly for having far fewer beers than the DA and drove home in their own vehicle only to be stopped and charged with DUI/DWAI. The video is enough proof that at a minimum he was DWAI. Who need a BAT? He should be charged, fined and attend the same classes he makes the citizens of El Paso county endure. SOMETHING MUST BE DONE!
Posted by: Renee Location: Colorado Springs on May 8, 2008 at 02:43 PM
Leave the poor man alone! He is human just like the everyone else. I am sure you or someone you know has had a few drinks, got in their car,and drove home. Yes it is very much against the law, and he should not have done it, so give him a ticket and a fine. And be done with it. I bet he will never do it again.
Posted by: Mark Location: Colorado Springs on May 8, 2008 at 02:42 PM
#1 no blood alcohol test was done so there's no proof he was drunk #2 he's one of the best DA's we've ever had, right up there with Bob Russell #3 we don't know what time he started work, perhaps 5 or 6 am so the bottom line is he said he was sorry and I believe him and I'll vote for him again because he's honest and does a great job and I don't think it will ever happen again
Posted by: Justus Location: Colorado Springs on May 8, 2008 at 02:41 PM
I believe the D.A. should be removed in november and let us elect someone else who will not drink and drive.
Posted by: Rick Location: COS on May 8, 2008 at 01:48 PM
This is another outrage! Proving once again that the officials from the police to the judges are OUT OF CONTROL. Do you have any idea how severe the punishment is for a typical Colorado Springs working Joe that drinks and drives? How little of an amount of drinking it takes for the citizen to be run through the ringer? A whole lot less than the two DAs drank. In fact one beer can land you in front of them in court! Do you know the El Paso County and the COS Police can and do issue DUI tickets to people when they aren’t even driving! Unless these two DAs are removed from public service, BTW both with a reputation of being tuff on DUIs, our entire judicial system should be dismissed as a complete farce! Not a single citizen should comply to any law or submit any further to their hypocritical authority. Nothing less than 55 days in “Work Release”, 200 hours of Community Service, 1 year Probation, $1,000.00 in fines and court costs, 160 hours of Alcohol Education (to teach them that they DO have an alcohol problem), loss of driving privileges for 1 year, SR22 auto insurance for 3 years, and suffer extraordinarily high auto insurance for another 2 years, will TEACH THEM BOTH what suffering and humiliation really is for the regular working Joe that stops for one tenth of the beer they consumed and has the misfortune of being Prosecuted by them. Thank you for covering this story. Hopefully your exposure will balance the scales of justice.
Posted by: ExpectGreatGovt Location: colo spgs on May 8, 2008 at 01:48 PM
If what Newsome says is true, i.e. that he is on call 24/7 he should NEVER be drinking except while on vacation. If he is on call 24/7 one would imagine that he would always need to be prepared, not impaired.
Posted by: ColoradoPokerChick on May 8, 2008 at 01:14 PM
What a Disgrace!!! I know folks that have been charged with a DUI and they wern't even driving. I think he should be held accountable for his actions and be charged with DUI.PERIOD!!! Make him go to MADD....Make him go to Alcohol Education and Therapy like the rest of DUI offenders have to endure..Pay your fines..and do your community service..then step down from the DA's office and think about what you have just told the rest of the public...THAT IS IS OK TO SNEAK OFF TO A BAR..HAVE A FEW BEERS...GO BACK TO WORK..THEN OFF TO ANOTHER BAR...AND THEN HAVE THE NERVE TO DRIVE HOME INTOXICATED NO LESS..IN A COMPANY CAR THAT WE PAY FOR....You Mr. Newsome need to do more than a simple stupid apology....step down from office and let someone more responsible take over!!!!!
Posted by: ExpectGreatGovt Location: Colo Spgs on May 8, 2008 at 12:47 PM
It would be a beautiful world if all we had to do was offer a sincere apology. We would not have jails filled beyond capacity (and a lot of innocent prisoners wrongly jailed by venemous DA's). Or perhaps we could have brought victims back from the dead after killed by a drunk driver. If I had known I could 'sincerely apologize' perhaps I could have gotten out of a speeding ticket or two. I wonder how many times DA Newsome has driven 'not impaired' with his kids in his car? Yes the world would be a beautiful place..if all we had to do was 'sincerely apologize' for our perceived misdeeds.
Posted by: In the Springs Location: Colorado on May 8, 2008 at 12:00 PM
Well said Scott & Anonymous...
Posted by: Attorney Location: Colorado Springs on May 8, 2008 at 11:03 AM
Sharon said that Newsome is on call 24/7 and works 12-14 hours a day. No he does not. Ask him to prove that to you. Taxpayers deserve to know the truth about Newsome and his abuse of power and abuse of taxpayer money. Have him prove to you the last time he even went out on a call. He almost always sends another attorney from the office to handle that. Those attorneys who actually cover those calls, do so in THEIR OWN VEHICLES paying for THEIR OWN GAS. Not county/taxpayer owned vehicles. Newsome needs to step down. He is an insult to the profession.
Posted by: Michelle Location: Colorado Springs on May 8, 2008 at 10:49 AM
He should be punished just like any one of us would! TICKETS, SUSPENDED LICENCE, CLASSES, FINES AND COMMUNITY SERVICE!! This is what anyone else would get and there is no reason for special treatment!!
Posted by: Lou Location: Colorado Springs on May 8, 2008 at 10:13 AM
In my opinion John Newsome acts as though he is above the law and an "I'm sorry" should suffice. Mr Newsome, you are not above the law and you are further demonstrating why you shouldn't be our District Attormey! Also your immaturity in not talking to the TV station that caught you is inexcusable.
Posted by: rebecca Location: colorado springs co on May 8, 2008 at 09:43 AM
I dont see justice if s da can get off saying I am sorry and that is the only penalty that he will recieve. I think any person that does wrong should pay the same price
Posted by: Stephanie Location: Colorado Springs on May 8, 2008 at 09:36 AM
John Newsome does not deserve the position in which he was intrusted. It doesn't matter if you "drink to the point of impairment" or not. If you have one beer, you're considered "impaired". We have people being persecuted for doing far less than this and he's the one who puts them there. But because of his "status" he gets a free ride. I'm very happy that KOAA(not KKTV) made this public. We have a right to know. He wasn't on his own time, he was on OUR time when he started drinking and he even went BACK to the office! And what's more, he's talking to everyone BUT the news station that broadcast the report to begin with. If he's going to be apologizing to anyone, it needs to be KOAA and James Jarmin. So, since John Newsome can drink and drive does that mean the rest of the county can too? I mean, if the person who's supposed to be setting the standard and upholding the law can do it, why can't we? There's no "vendetta" here. They acted on solid tips.
Posted by: Paul Location: C/S on May 8, 2008 at 09:22 AM
My mom always told me "if you do something that youre not supposed to do, eventually you will get caught" Kind of makes me wonder how long the DA has been driving under the influence. Regardless of anything else...IT IS WRONG TO DRINK AND DRIVE!!! BTW if he was drinking then went to a meeting and then went back to another bar for more drinking,guess what...HE WAS DRUNK ON DUTY!!!And as for the news following him and videoing everything he does...every elected official should feel that at anytime anywhere they are being watched
Posted by: IDIOT Location: VILLAGE on May 8, 2008 at 08:24 AM
You people have nothing better to cover or do than to worry about when someone has been drinking and enjoying himself?? Wow, this seems like Brittney Spears coverage! I know there are more important things to cover out there than this. Even if he got a DUI, is this worth front news coverage? Get a life people, or better yet, go back to California and work for one of those low rate news places and ruin someone else's life. They like to do that there and we don't have to keep up with California. Don't waste my time with this kind of junk news and all you people that enojoy it need to get a life!!!!!!
Posted by: Sue Location: CSC on May 8, 2008 at 08:09 AM
Want Newsome treated like everyone else? How about taking it out of the News Media. Let's take it off the internet, of the T.V., off the radios, and out of the newspaper! If your neighbor was charged with a DUI, you probably wouldn't even know about it unless he told you. Most DUI's never make the news unless somebody has been killed or seriously injured. Newsome hasn't done any harm to anyone...just himself. That's punishment enough.
Posted by: gina Location: colorado springs on May 8, 2008 at 07:48 AM
I think the DA should get the same punishment as any one elese . How can a DA get a reward for saying I am sorry and he can put others behind bars for the sam crime . So who is the innocent and the guilty
Posted by: Marty Location: CS on May 8, 2008 at 06:28 AM
What prompted this month long taping of the DA? Does channel 5 have a vendetta against him? The video shown on TV doesn't show him acting or walking in a drunken state. The glasses of beer were consumed over a 5 or 6 hour period of time. If he had a blood alcohol level high enough to warrant a DUI, then why didn't the cameraman have a cop on hand to ticket him. I'm not sure where KOAA is going with all this, but there are a lot of crimes to prosecute in this city. Now all of the other stations have jumped on the bandwagon. Daily I see city workers spending our tax dollars on frequent trips to 7-11's and yes, they are driving a city vehicle. It's clear to me someone wants to get Newsome's job taken away..following him around filming his every move seems pretty low..
Posted by: kim Location: krausfeldt on May 8, 2008 at 05:57 AM
I dont find the DA drinking 7 beers in a 5 hour period noteworthy are you hard up for news or is it maybe someone doesnt like his pro gun politics and is trying to oust him like the other pro gun officials what does the channel 5 news guy have against the DA? Does George Soros have an agenda or what? Im so sick of hearing this story I turn off the news whenever it comes up again and again
Posted by: Karin Location: Northeast on May 8, 2008 at 02:54 AM
What is fair is to treat Mr. Newsome the same as anyone else. His blood alcohol level with eight beers in five hours at approximately 200 lbs. would certainly be over the legal limit. Whether he consumed "a large meal?" would alter the BAC somewhat, but he'd still be over .08, thus guilty of DUI. It IS up to the people of El Paso and Teller County to decide and I for one will sign a recall petition in a heart beat. Mr. Newsome's apology is a given - what else is he going to say in an election year? These counties are deserving of a DA who has integrity and abides by the same laws he prosecutes.
Posted by: Mike Location: Springs on May 8, 2008 at 12:02 AM
I'm a voter and I think he should face criminal charges. A voter has spoken!!!
Posted by: Ron Location: Springs on May 7, 2008 at 11:02 PM
I believe that he needs to be accountable for his actions. No one is above the law. He enforces the law and he should now have to be punished by the law. If he is not shown as an example, then we as the people lose faith in the law.
Posted by: Bill Location: Rathbun on May 7, 2008 at 10:41 PM
I for one demand Mr. Newsome step down or face a recall election.
Posted by: Local Location: Colorado Springs on May 7, 2008 at 10:23 PM
“I'm sorry” doesn’t get a free pass for potential criminals that deal with his office. The DA should be charged. His actions were aggravated and he's a danger to our citizens. We can't be sure he won't do it again. We need to protect our citizens in the future from his reckless behavior and poor decisions. He could have killed someone. I bet he wasn't even wearing his seat belt.
Posted by: Glenn Location: Fountain on May 7, 2008 at 10:21 PM
I've had a DWAI on my record (could have been worse) but I paid a heavy price for it because it was wrong to drive while impaired. I paid because I didn't use proper judgement to call my wife or a taxi. If our DA lacks this simple capacity in judgement, what gives him the right to prosecute others who have commited similiar crimes. He should step down.
Posted by: George Location: Phillips on May 7, 2008 at 10:21 PM
I think that it is wrong for Mr. Newsome to remain in office when his very office prosucuted my daughter for a DUI, (her first and only and she has completed everything the court has mandated except finishing payin off her fines,) she is making payments on and now she cannot even work as or test to be a CNA in this state. She has moved to Texas so that she can presue her career field. The system has ruined her ability to make a living in her native state and it is OK for the DA to stay working with no consequences for his actions. Talk about a do as I tell you system but do not do as I do. Social ranking in this state is every thing.
Posted by: Tami Location: North Colorado Springs on May 7, 2008 at 10:20 PM
My goodness, 8 beers over a 5 hour period. Most men can drink 3 - 4 beers in an hour and not be drunk. I agree, where is the video? What did he eat while drinking beer? I can drink 2 beers in an hour and not be slightly intoxicated and I don't drink often, so in case someone wants to reply, no, I haven't built up a tolerance. People should look at themselves and how much they drink prior to pointing fingers just because he is in the public's eye.
Posted by: Terri Gray Location: Colorado Springs on May 7, 2008 at 10:18 PM
"The DA's Office needs to stay focused", says Newsome ... they need to prosecute thousands of drunk drivers ... no mercy they say ... Ah, People in glass houses ...
Posted by: Tim Location: Colorado Springs on May 7, 2008 at 10:16 PM
I'm sorry but someone who is responsible for putting people in jail for the same infraction should not be able to keep his position. Drunk driving is a serious offense and nobody should be above the law. It disgusts me that he can keep his position adn there's nothing that can be done about it because he's protected under law. Where can I get a job like that where I can violate the laws I'm hired to enforce and then be protected when I violate them myself. Only in America!
Posted by: Patrick Location: Colorado springs on May 7, 2008 at 10:14 PM
I feel that the DA is a citizen like the rest of us and deserves to lose his license for a year, pay restitution and be put on probation. Just because he is the DA dosent mean he should be cut a break. If i got caught drinking and driving, im sure that is what would happen to me. Thanks
Posted by: Sharon Location: Colorado Springs on May 7, 2008 at 10:12 PM
This man is on call 24/7 - sometime is is called out in the middle of the night and he works 12/14 hours. He is entitled to comp time and we, as citizens, have no call to pass judgment on him nor to call for punishment. Each and every person has broken a traffic law. Speeding, rolling through a stop sign, running a yellow/red light. And when we go out and have an alcoholic beverage do we wait until the alcohol is out of your system. Nope, unrealistic. Should he have called for a ride, without a doubt and you bet he will never drink again without thinking of the consequences and that is more than what you can say for most folks as can be attested by the number of people arrested for driving without a license. I also think you have a duty to report ALL the facts around this incident, not just the ones that make a sensational story. By the way folks, where is the proof that BAC was over the limt? Oh...there is none. Talk about false accusations!
Posted by: Ralph Location: Colorado Springs on May 7, 2008 at 10:07 PM
Any regular citizen caught after drinking that much over 5 hours would have caught a DUAI at the least. How many DUAIs and DWIs has Newsome and his office used to ruin how many hundreds of lives or the last 3 years? If he had been pulled over, how much would you like to bet he would have gotten a ride home and no charges?
Posted by: Jake Location: Colorado Springs on May 7, 2008 at 10:05 PM
Let he who is shameless cast the first stone...
Posted by: kd Location: fountain on May 7, 2008 at 09:15 PM
How many offenders have stood before him and they also said I'm sorry I should set an example and he's thrown the book at him. The only thing he's sorry for is getting caught. If he walks, i'll have lost all respect for our justice system. There should be no question that he not step down. He should have been arrested, had a BAC and went to jail just like anyone else. It's so disturbing that these elected officials, politicians and celebrity's are out there livin it up and getting away with the same thing that mom's, dad's, brothers and sisters are being locked up for. Who's up for a protest down at city hall!!! Enough is enough we have a right to expect more out these people.
Posted by: Jeff C Location: colorado springs on May 7, 2008 at 07:33 PM
anyone else caught doing the same thing would be fired. Question is what does it take to get rid of a drunk d.a. Also take away his car so he doesnt kill someone or wreck it.We need a new DA
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Colo Spgs on May 7, 2008 at 07:16 PM
Kudos to the DA for stepping up and accepting responsibility. Not many people would do this. He is by far one of the best DA's this county has had and is an outstanding person. I think he has learned from this event.
Posted by: Michael Location: CSC on May 7, 2008 at 07:16 PM
This is why the public does not trust in public officals,they go unpunished.What DOES MADD have to say about this??????????????
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Colo Spgs on May 7, 2008 at 07:14 PM
There is no proof DA Newsome was driving driving drunk. Just that he got in the car after drinking, which is not a crime. Keep in mind, he has not been charged with a crime. Sounds to me like Angie, Jack & Sadie are a little bitter towards the system. Newsome knows how the system works. He is human and is allowed to have a life outside of work. What KOAA did was defamation of character and was WRONG no matter which way you look it.
Posted by: Scott Location: Sprngs on May 7, 2008 at 07:08 PM
What he does on his own time is his business. Who are we to judge him. If you watch the video he is not staggering or stumbling. Clinton smokes weed what happened to him?I wish the news would report on news not try to be the National Enquirer. I will never watch channel 5 again. Thank you john for making our county safe!
Posted by: tom Location: colorado springs on May 7, 2008 at 07:07 PM
This is only the Newsome's response. To be fair, this station should give a link to the news station that actually did this story, KOAA. This was not an investigation done by KKTV.
Posted by: David Romero Location: Colorado Springs Co on May 7, 2008 at 06:09 PM
My name is David Romero and I am the owner of US Painting. I drank one night in December after not drinking 13 years I had one of my employees drive home . I was parked in my front yard on my own property and I couldnt get into my house because the locks on the door had been changed by an ex girlfriend. She called the policemen when she heard me at the door . I went back to my truck after I couldnt get into my house . So I called the employee that brought me back home to pick me up. The police came and was going to release me but the ex girlfriend was causing a scandel and they charged me with a dui. I have contacted an attorney , she told me that the district attorney wants to lesson the charge to a lessor charge that will make me loose 8 points on my license plus I have to do 48 hrs of commmunity service and go to MADD class . I also have to pay restition $1500.00 for a blood test that was given to me . If I have to do all of these things I think he should recieve the same punishment.
Posted by: In the Springs Location: Springs on May 7, 2008 at 05:27 PM
There are 2 sides to every story. A "tolerance" to alcohol Angie? How do we know he didn't consume a large meal during this 5-hour span? He's not a small guy, some men can hold their liquor (beer), especially while eating. I'm not saying it's good to drink that much, but I don't think the media is reporting everything. How convenient this comes out now, during an election year...
Posted by: sadie Location: csc on May 7, 2008 at 05:25 PM
sorry just doesnt work mr DA
Posted by: sadie Location: csc on May 7, 2008 at 05:24 PM
what the DA has done is not acceptable!!! and ill bet he will get off and which that shows how are system works. but if your just some joe you will lose liceance, get community service, and some serve a lil time but ill bet he walks. so for everyone just get rich or work for the system and im sure you will get off too
Posted by: Jack Location: Security on May 7, 2008 at 04:32 PM
He is so tough on offenders, we have video proof of him drunk driving. I say charge him, and make him an example. He is way too conviction happy, he fills our jails with minor offenders to the point its over capacity. Now lets have him see first hand how his system works!
Posted by: Anonymous on May 7, 2008 at 02:41 PM
Where is the video of him drinking??
Posted by: Angie Location: south east colorado springs on May 7, 2008 at 02:13 PM
I am concerned about a DA being able to drink and drive without having to face any consequences. For him to drink as much as he did during the KKTV observation he must have built up a tolerance to alcohol for some time. Where are his collegues during this time? He should have known better being involved in criminal justice. I hope he has to face the same consequences as those out there have who have had DUI's. Making an example out of him will show others that position or having money does not make it ok to break the law.
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Last Updated: 6:56 AM 05/15/08 - The carefully timed plug steals the thunder from Hillary Clinton the day after she trounced Obama in West Virginia. (Full Story)
Pregnant Woman Dies When Car Plunges Off Snowpacked Highway

Last Updated: 9:38 AM 05/14/08 - The driver of a sport-utility vehicle lost control on the snowpacked highway Tuesday and plunged more than 300 feet off the road. (Full Story)
Second Driver Dies After Wrong-Way Crash In Grand Junction

Last Updated: 8:21 AM 05/14/08 - Police say the woman driving a Dodge Caravan died Monday evening, a few hours after the crash. (Full Story)
State Parole Officer Shoots Man At Denver Home

Last Updated: 8:15 AM 05/14/08 - Police say the shooting occurred at a Denver home about 9 p.m. Tuesday. Lieutenant Ron Saunier says the parole officer notified authorities himself that he had shot someone. (Full Story)
CO 'Personhood' Amendment Supporters To Turn In Petitions

Last Updated: 2:52 PM 05/13/08 - Supporters of a measure defining a fertilized human egg as a person are set to turn in petitions in hopes of getting it on Colorado's November's ballot. (Full Story)
Senate Says Halt Oil Shipments To Gov't Reserve

Last Updated: 10:37 AM 05/13/08 - The Senate is directing President Bush to temporarily halt the shipment of thousands of barrels of oil a day to the government's emergency reserve. (Full Story)
No Injuries Reported In Collapsed N.C. Parking Deck

Last Updated: 9:01 AM 05/13/08 - Fire Capt. Rob Brisley says firefighters are still searching the rubble under a collapsed section that was about the size of a basketball court. It collapsed Tuesday morning about 8:30 a.m. (Full Story)
Some Highways Reopen Near Florida Wildfire

Last Updated: 9:00 AM 05/13/08 - Some stretches of highway near a cluster of Florida wildfires are open again while crews struggle for a third day to stop the flames. (Full Story)
Cheney Campaigns For Mississippi Candidate

Last Updated: 8:51 AM 05/13/08 - The special election follows one last month in which Democrat Travis Childers came out on top in a six-candidate race but with just 49 percent of the vote, requiring a runoff. (Full Story)
Obama Could Help Pay Down Clinton Presidential Debt

Last Updated: 8:48 AM 05/13/08 - As the debt mounts, Clinton could be helped by none other than Barack Obama, who might ask his vast contributor network to pay down her debt for the sake of party unity. (Full Story)
Obama Defends His Patriotism

Last Updated: 3:04 PM 05/12/08 - Barack Obama is striking back Monday at the critics who claim he's not particularly patriotic or ready to be commander-in-chief. (Full Story)
Clinton working for big win in West Virginia

Last Updated: 2:54 PM 05/12/08 - Clinton also spent Mother's Day in the state, while Obama rested. (Full Story)
McCain urges free-market principles to reduce global warming

Last Updated: 10:36 AM 05/12/08 - John McCain says global warming is undeniable, and he's arguing that the country must take steps to bring it under control. (Full Story)
Obama Campaign Mulls McCain Camp's Joint Appearances Suggestion

Last Updated: 8:41 AM 05/12/08 - Barack Obama's campaign is considering a suggestion from John McCain's campaign for the two presidential hopefuls to participate in joint town meetings and debates this summer. (Full Story)
Clinton Still Hoping

Last Updated: 8:32 AM 05/12/08 - Hillary Clinton, who's heading for what's expected to be a substantial win Tuesday in West Virginia's primary, is easing off the jabs at her opponent. (Full Story)
Barr Expected To Announce Libertarian White House Bid

Last Updated: 8:30 AM 05/12/08 - Former Republican Rep. Bob Barr is expected to announce that he's running for president as a Libertarian. (Full Story)
Forest Thinning Project Proposed Near Red Feather Lakes

Last Updated: 2:20 PM 05/09/08 - Agency officials say they want to eliminate trees with small-diameter trunks on about 10,000 acres, and set controlled fires on at least 6,000 acres. (Full Story)
Denver Man wants Voters To Prepare For Alien Visits

Last Updated: 11:35 AM 05/09/08 - He needs to gather 4,000 signatures to get the issue on November's ballot. (Full Story)
Obama Wins Two New Superdelegates

Last Updated: 8:12 AM 05/09/08 - A spokesman for Democrat Barack Obama's presidential campaign says he's won the endorsements of two more superdelegates. (Full Story)
Edwards Says Obama Has Better Chance Of Beating McCain

Last Updated: 7:50 AM 05/09/08 - The superdelegate tells NBC's "Today" show that Obama can unite the Democratic party, bring in new voters and get people excited about change. (Full Story)
Man Faces Death Penalty for Prison Slaying

Last Updated: 7:48 AM 05/09/08 - A federal jury has convicted a man for his role in a prison slaying in which he was videotaped smearing an organ from the victim on his cell door.
(Full Story)
At Least 1 Dead After Severe Storms Hit Southeast

Last Updated: 7:44 AM 05/09/08 - A possible tornado touched down on the outskirts of Greensboro late Thursday as severe storms swept across the Southeast, damaging homes and businesses in at least five other states. (Full Story)
Texas Man Faces Charges in Bison Deaths

Last Updated: 7:50 AM 05/09/08 - A Texas man faces charges of animal cruelty and theft in the slaughter of 32 bison on a Colorado ranch in March. An arrest warrant was issued Thursday for Jeffrey Scott Hawn of Austin, who controls the ranch where the bison were shot.
(Full Story)
Oldest League Bowler Dies At 106

Last Updated: 11:23 AM 05/08/08 - Bill Hargrove died Monday of congestive heart failure. He was four days shy of his 107th birthday. (Full Story)
Man Sought In NM Slaying Is Arrested In Colorado

Last Updated: 11:10 AM 05/08/08 - The U.S. Marshals Service says 26-year-old Bradley House Jr. was arrested Wednesday in Denver. (Full Story)
Experts Check To See If Tornadoes Caused Damage In Oklahoma

Last Updated: 9:37 AM 05/08/08 - In Oklahoma, witnesses have been describing heavy rain, hail and storms that seemed to rock the walls yesterday. (Full Story)
Five Million Dollar Lottery Winner Found Slain

Last Updated: 6:43 AM 05/08/08 - A 42-year-old Georgia woman who won Five million dollars in the state lottery a year ago has been found stabbed to death in her home. (Full Story)
Iraqi Soldiers Warn People To Leave Sadr City

Last Updated: 6:28 AM 05/08/08 - Residents say Iraqi soldiers are warning people to leave their homes in Sadr City for security reasons. (Full Story)
Lawmakers Finish With Constitutional, Education Reform

Last Updated: 6:57 AM 05/07/08 - Colorado lawmakers adjourned their regular session Tuesday night, a day before the mandatory deadline. (Full Story)
N.C., Indiana Last Chance For A Big Delegate Haul

Last Updated: 11:05 AM 05/06/08 - Altogether, 187 delegates are at stake in the two states. After today, there are just 217 pledged delegates up for grabs in the six remaining contests. (Full Story)
First Execution In 7 months Could Be Tonight

Last Updated: 6:58 AM 05/06/08 - A Georgia man tonight could be the first inmate put to death since a U.S. Supreme Court review halted executions last year. (Full Story)
Study Says More Than Half Of Homes P