WILMINGTON — Early Saturday morning, police arrested a 24-year-old female on charges including driving while impaired, improper passing, and failure to reduce speed.
Alexis Williamson allegedly blew 0.19 on the intoximeter — double the state’s level of 0.08 — after hitting a horse while an officer was mounted on it. According to a release from the Wilmington Police Department, Williamson attempted to pass the patrol on South Front Street in downtown Wilmington close to 2:30 a.m. on Aug. 27.
The horse, 19-year-old Elton, sustained an injury to his left leg, while the officer did not have any wounds. North Carolina State Highway Patrol is handling the collision report, as is protocol for crashes involving WPD units.
“Our animal programs have been in existence for more than 30 years and we currently have eight dedicated to serving alongside our human officers, including the K9 and mounted units,” WPD Chief Donny Williams said in a press release. “They assume the same risks and many of the same challenges as their partners.”
The police chief said Elton — a Percheron serving the force for 16 years — is receiving medical care and was able to put weight on the injured leg during his recent checkup. A video posted on the WPD Facebook page shows the horse is able to walk.
Williamson is being held at the NHCSO Detention Center under a $3,000 unsecured bond.
Have comments or tips? Email info@portcitydaily.com.
Want to read more from PCD? Subscribe now and then sign up for our newsletter, Wilmington Wire, and get the headlines delivered to your inbox every morning.
