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Detroit City Councilman Arrested On Suspicion Of Drunken Driving

SOUTHFIELD (WWJ) - A Detroit city councilman spent the night in jail after he was pulled over for alleged drunken driving Sunday night.

Scott Benson, who represents District three, was arrested by Southfield police when he was found sleeping in his car, slumped over the steering wheel.

Scott Benson
Scott Benson is seen outside the Southfield Police Department. credit: Vickie Thomas/WWJ

Benson's car was still running, according to police — idling on the Southfield Freeway service drive.

WWJ's Charlie Langton was at the Southfield Police Department when Benson walked out of jail Monday morning — but couldn't get a statement.

"No comment as this time," was all  Benson told reporters.

Benson was released after posting a $500 bond.

Blood-alcohol test results are pending; expected to take about a month.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and City Council President Brenda Jones released the following statement regarding the matter"

"We have recently learned that misdemeanor charges are being sought against Councilman Scott Benson. We have no first-hand facts about the matter and we will not speculate. Instead we will let the judicial system proceed in its normal course. In the meantime, we will remain focused on getting the city's business done."

Detroit Councilwoman Saunteel Jenkins  — who filed in for Benson to head up Monday's Public Health and Safety Committee meeting —  said she found how she was chairing the meeting and why only about an hour before it started.

"I don't have any details (about Benson's arrest); all I know is what I've read,"  Jenkins told WWJ City Beat Reporter Vickie Thomas. "It's an unfortunate distraction, but I think we should let the legal process take its course."

 

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