Former Texas City Commissioner Arrested for DWI Amidst Ongoing Probation
In a shocking turn of events, Dee Ann Haney, a former commissioner of Texas City, has been arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) while already on probation for her involvement in a tragic 2017 vehicular crash that claimed the lives of a father and son. This incident has raised serious concerns about public safety and the accountability of elected officials.
The Arrest
Haney, 61, was apprehended in the early hours of September 27, around 4 a.m. Law enforcement officials set her bond at a staggering $100,000. The Texas City Police Department (TCPD) was alerted to her erratic driving by a concerned witness who reported that Haney exhibited slurred speech and was driving in a dangerous manner. Upon making contact with Haney, officers were met with a perplexing account: she claimed to have been attacked by three unknown individuals near a local park. However, the witness contradicted her story, stating that they had observed Haney rolling on the ground and screaming, seemingly alone, prior to her claims of an attack.
Signs of Intoxication
When questioned by the police, Haney admitted to consuming one beer and one shot earlier that evening, alongside her daily medications. Despite her claims, officers noted several indicators of intoxication, including a strong smell of alcohol on her breath, slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, and poor balance. In a further attempt to evade testing, Haney refused to take a breathalyzer, leading to her arrest.
A Troubling History
This recent arrest is particularly alarming given Haney’s prior legal troubles. Earlier this year, she was convicted of two counts of criminal negligent homicide stemming from a devastating incident in July 2017. Haney struck 58-year-old Van Duoc Le and his son, 33-year-old Hong Phuc Le, while they were on the side of Interstate 45, resulting in their deaths. Following the collision, she admitted to a Department of Public Safety (DPS) trooper that she had smoked marijuana shortly before the accident. Although she was not charged with intoxication in that case, the evidence was sufficient for her to face criminal charges related to the fatalities.
Potential Consequences
With this latest DWI arrest, Haney’s probation from the previous homicide convictions is now at risk of being revoked. The implications of her actions extend beyond her personal circumstances; they raise critical questions about the responsibilities of public officials and the legal system’s ability to enforce accountability. As the community grapples with the fallout from this incident, many are left wondering how such behavior can persist among those entrusted with public service.
Community Reactions
The community’s response to Haney’s arrest has been one of disbelief and concern. Many residents are questioning the integrity of their local leadership and the effectiveness of the judicial system in handling repeat offenders. The tragic loss of the Le family continues to resonate within Texas City, and this recent incident has reignited discussions about the need for stricter measures to prevent impaired driving and protect public safety.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the focus will remain on the potential ramifications for Haney, both in terms of her probation status and her future in public service. The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges related to substance abuse and the importance of accountability for those in positions of authority.