North Carolina Senator Norman Sanderson Arrested on DWI Charge in Raleigh
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA — North Carolina State Senator Norman Sanderson, 74, was arrested Saturday night and charged with driving while impaired (DWI) after being stopped near Edwards Mill Road in Raleigh, according to court documents obtained by ABC11.
The longtime legislator, who represents several eastern North Carolina counties, is also facing charges of failure to obey a traffic officer and transporting an open container of alcohol.
Arrest Details and Test Results
Court records indicate that Senator Sanderson’s breath test registered a 0.16 blood alcohol concentration, which is twice the legal limit in North Carolina.
He was taken into custody by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and later released on a $2,000 bond. Authorities confirmed that no injuries or property damage occurred during the incident.
Sanderson issued a public statement acknowledging his actions and apologizing for the lapse in judgment.
“Last night I made a regrettable mistake, and I take responsibility for my actions,” Sanderson told ABC11. “I want to apologize to my constituents, my colleagues, and my family for letting them down. I commend the State Highway Patrol and the Wake County Sheriff’s Office for their professionalism during the incident.”
Court Appearance Scheduled for November
The senator is scheduled to appear in Wake County Court on November 7, where he will face the formal DWI charge along with related infractions.
Sanderson, a Republican, has served in the North Carolina General Assembly since 2011 and currently represents Carteret, Chowan, Halifax, Hyde, Martin, Pamlico, Warren, and Washington counties.
Public Response and Political Implications
Sanderson’s arrest has prompted reactions across state political circles, with some constituents expressing disappointment while others have called for understanding, citing his decades of service.
While no official disciplinary action has been announced, the incident adds to a growing list of DWI cases involving public officials in the state, renewing discussion around accountability in elected office.
The North Carolina Senate leadership has not yet issued a formal statement regarding Sanderson’s arrest.
Stay with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for updates on this developing story and other political news impacting North and South Carolina.
