An elected official from North Dakota faced backlash after making xenophobic and homophobic remarks during a DUI arrest, which was recorded on video.
Republican legislator Nico Rios was apprehended for driving under the influence in his district in Williston on the night of December 15 after law enforcement observed his vehicle swerving and pulled him over.
Police officers approached Rios in his car and activated their body cameras, capturing a 21-minute interaction, which later became viral.
In the recorded footage, the officers questioned Rios, who appeared inebriated and made false statements, including denying having an open beer bottle in his vehicle.
Rios presented expired registration to the officers and was instructed to undergo a field sobriety test.
During the assessment, Rios became confrontational, issuing threats to the officers and asserting that they were targeting him unfairly, citing his status as a deterrent.
Rios declined to take a breathalyzer test as requested by one of the officers, resulting in his immediate arrest and placement in handcuffs.
During transit to the police station, Rios directed derogatory remarks at an officer of British origin, ridiculing his accent and expressing anti-immigrant sentiments.
At the station, Rios made a homophobic comment to the officer, who reported the series of offensive statements made by the lawmaker to their supervisor.
Rios was charged with DUI and refusing to undergo a chemical test. Following his release from custody, Rios issued a statement expressing remorse for his actions but did not offer an apology to the offended officer.
## FAQ
**1. What led to the arrest of North Dakota lawmaker Nico Rios?**
Nico Rios was arrested for driving under the influence after law enforcement observed his vehicle swerving in his district in Williston.
**2. What derogatory remarks did Nico Rios make during the arrest?**
Rios made xenophobic and homophobic comments, directed at the arresting officers and a British-born officer, which were recorded on video.
**3. Was Nico Rios remorseful for his behavior during the arrest?**
Following his release from custody, Rios expressed regret for his actions but did not issue an apology to the offended officer.
## Conclusion
The arrest of North Dakota lawmaker Nico Rios for driving under the influence led to widespread criticism due to his xenophobic and homophobic remarks directed at the arresting officers. Rios expressed regret for his actions but did not apologize to the offended officer. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and responsible behavior, particularly for public officials.