Body cam footage of Rep. Bumgardner’s DUI arrest in Groton

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Groton, CT - Body camera footage released by Groton police Tuesday shows nearly all the interactions officers had with State Rep. Aundré Bumgardner during his arrest for DUI early Sunday morning.

The incident happened around 2:30 a.m. A Groton police officer said he was traveling on the Gold Star Highway when he noticed two vehicles driving slowly. The lead car moved over slightly to let the other one pass, then pulled over in the breakdown lane, according to an incident report.

As the officer pulled over behind him, Bumgardner immediately got out of his vehicle and told the officer he had gotten a flat tire and was trying to get home. Bumgardner’s wife was sleeping in the backseat during the incident, according to police.

According to the incident report, Bumgardner was very vague about where he had been that night, but eventually said he attended an event with constituents.

During the interaction, the officer said he thought Bumgardner seemed nervous as he answered questions quickly and direct. The officer also reported Bumgardner’s speech was slightly slurred, there was a strong odor of alcohol coming from his breath, and he swayed while standing in place.

When asked, Bumgardner repeatedly told the officer he had nothing to drink that night.

Body camera footage shows him agree to Field Sobriety Tests. He fails to perform the three tests to standard and is immediately placed under arrest.

Before processing Bumgardner at the police station, an officer reported finding a full corked bottle of wine on the floor behind the driver’s seat of Bumgardner’s vehicle.

His Blood Alcohol Content was later determined to be about twice over the legal limit.

Bumgardner was released on a $1,500 non-surety bond and is scheduled to appear in New London court on March 14.

The 30-year-old Democrat represents Groton and Stonington. He is assistant majority leader of the House Democratic caucus and serves on the Finance, Energy, Environment, and Transportation Committees.

Earlier this week, Bumgardner issued a written statement acknowledging the incident and apologizing “for my actions and the disappointment I have caused.”

“I take full responsibility for my actions and deeply regret this mistake,” Bumgardner said. “I am grateful that no one was harmed and that no accident occurred. I recognize the seriousness of this situation and am committed to taking the necessary steps to ensure it never happens again.”

State Rep. Matt Ritter, the top Democrat in the state House, said Bumgardner will be suspended from his leadership positions and committee assignments “until further notice.”