Readers support ‘courtesy rides’ from MPD

When InMaricopa.com readers were polled on the question “Should driver’s accused of DUI ever be given a ride home by police?” the majority, or 172 out of 293 respondents, said: “Yes.”

The poll comes after InMaricopa.com reported that Council Bridger Kimball received a citation in December for DUI and was given a ride home by an officer.

The Maricopa Police Department, as part of it’s community policing philosophy, gives “courtesy rides” if an officer is available and citing and releasing a suspect.

While 18 poll respondents said they weren’t sure if police should give such rides, 103 answered: “No.”

On Tuesday, Kimball read a statement during the city council meeting apologizing to residents for his getting the DUI citation.

“As soon as the legal process allows me to, you will have the answers directly from me to all your questions,” Kimball read. “In the meantime, I ask for your patience.” Kimball said.

“I also ask for your forgiveness and I do humbly apologize for allowing this to become an unwanted distraction to the city of Maricopa,” he said.