Democratic Candidate Seen Sobbing in Patrol Car After DUI Arrest

Washington state Democrat Krista Perez, a candidate for the state House of Representatives, was recorded on police body camera footage crying and praying in the back of a patrol car following her arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence. The incident occurred on August 11 after Perez's vehicle allegedly struck a parked car, initiating a chain reaction that damaged five vehicles.

Perez, who secured first place in the primary for the 29th Legislative District, Position 1, is slated to face incumbent state Rep. Melanie Morgan in the general election. Prosecutors have charged Perez with DUI, including a refusal enhancement related to the collision and her subsequent interaction with law enforcement.

Body camera footage captured by officers shows Perez initially questioning the situation after the crash, stating she did not understand what was happening and claiming she was not involved in an accident. When questioned by an officer about having consumed alcohol, Perez admitted to having "some wine" while at a friend's business.

Asked to rate her sobriety on a scale of zero to 10, Perez initially expressed a desire to go home but eventually rated herself a four. She declined to take standardized field sobriety tests, repeatedly stating she was confused and wished to go home. An officer informed her that the tests were voluntary but that her decision would be made at that time.

Following her refusal of the tests, Perez was informed she was under arrest for DUI. According to reports, a refusal enhancement stems from an incident at Tacoma Police headquarters, where authorities stated she did not provide a usable breath sample after three attempts.

Under Washington state law, roadside sobriety tests are not mandatory, and declining them is distinct from the refusal enhancement charge.

Perez was seen in the patrol car footage sobbing and praying, audibly asking for divine assistance. State law does not prevent individuals charged with DUI from serving in the legislature. Historically, other Democratic lawmakers have retained their seats after alcohol-related incidents.