LIBERTY, N.C. (ACME NEWS) — A Liberty police officer has resigned after being charged with driving while impaired following a crash that occurred as he arrived at the police department to begin his shift on Valentine’s Day, authorities said.
Kevin Robert Carey, 50, of Siler City, was involved in a two-car collision around 5:45 p.m. on February 14 on Old Liberty Road near the entrance to the Liberty Police Department parking lot.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol responded to investigate the crash. According to troopers, Carey was driving his personal vehicle and attempted to make a left turn into the police department’s parking lot to start his shift when he crossed into the path of an oncoming vehicle, resulting in the collision.
No serious injuries were reported, and both parties declined hospital transport.
Troopers suspected Carey was under the influence and conducted a test that revealed his blood alcohol content was 0.11%, exceeding the legal limit of 0.08%. Carey was charged with driving while impaired and received a citation for failure to yield.
The Liberty Police Department confirmed in a statement on February 15 that the crash involved one of its officers. The officer was initially suspended pending an internal investigation.
Carey later resigned from his position following the incident. The State Highway Patrol is continuing to handle the criminal investigation.
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