CHARLOTTE, N.C. — An off-duty CMPD officer was arrested and charged on Friday with driving while impaired in her own car, authorities say.
Early morning Friday, police say Crystal Washington, an off-duty officer with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, was traveling on Robinson Church Road where she lost control of her car and collided with a sign.
Police say Washington was not injured and did not injure anyone else in this collision.
Responding officers say they suspected Washington was drunk and immediately notified a supervisor.
A DWI Task Force Officer responded to investigate, and they determined Washington was driving while impaired.
Officer Washington was then arrested for a DWI and taken to CMPD headquarters for further questioning.
Chief of Police Johnny Jennings says “It is always disheartening when I learn that one of our officers has violated the very laws that we are sworn to uphold. However, professional accountability is a priority for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, and our officers are expected to maintain this standard at all times.”
The CMPD Internal Affairs Division will conduct a separate administrative investigation.
The investigation into this case is active and ongoing.
Police ask anyone with more information to call 704-336-8535 to speak with a member of the DWI Task Force or leave a tip anonymously with Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.