Present and former colleagues of Harford County Council President Robert Wagner reacted with surprise to the news that he was charged with driving under the influence Monday morning, while more details about the arrest have come to light.
“I worked with Rob for eight years, and I have found him to be a brave and honorable man,” said Harford County Council Member Cecelia Stepp, R-District F.
“I sincerely hope that if Mr. Wagner has a problem, he is a smart man and he will fix it. I hope this does not prevent him from serving the citizens of Harford County in the future,” she said.
The Harford County Sheriff?s Office released its report on Wagner?s arrest, which indicates he had a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.21. Wagner told police he had been drinking at around 8 a.m. Monday, and went to see a relative at a Rock Spring assisted living facility. Police were called about 11 a.m., shortly after he arrived; Wagner was found behind the wheel of his parked car with the engine still running.
Wagner was issued a traffic citation for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, sheriff?s office spokesman Bob Thomas said. Wagner was arrested before being released into the care of a friend, Thomas said.
“I guess he is lucky he didn?t kill anybody,” said Aaron Kazi, who placed third in the Republican primary for council president. Kazi said he was struck by a drunken driver several years ago.
Wagner lost the primary to Billy Boniface.
Stepp chose not to seek re-election, and said that Tuesday night?s council meeting would be the last for both her and Wagner.
“It?s a downright shame that this man, who has served ? for so long, will go out this way,” Stepp said.
Wagner did not return messages The Examiner left on his office and cell voice mail Tuesday, and his home phone was busy.
