Senator Norman W. Sanderson. Screengrab, YouTube
Republican State Senator Norman W. Sanderson of eastern North Carolina has been arrested in Raleigh on a charge of driving while impaired, according to public records.
North Carolina-based WRAL News reported Sunday that the 74‑year‑old Republican from Pamlico County was taken into custody Saturday near the junction of Edwards Mill Road and Trinity Road in Raleigh.
In addition to the DWI charge, Sanderson reportedly faces two misdemeanor counts: failure to obey a traffic officer and transporting an open container of alcohol.
According to the report, he posted a $2,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on November 7.
On Sunday, a spokesperson for the Senate Republican Caucus released a statement from Sanderson:
“Last night I made a regrettable mistake, and I take responsibility for my actions. I want to apologize to my constituents, my colleagues, and my family for letting them down. I commend the State Highway Patrol and the Wake County Sheriff’s Office for their professionalism during the incident.”
Sanderson represents North Carolina’s 2nd Senate District, covering several eastern counties including Carteret, Chowan, Halifax, Hyde, Martin, Pamlico, Warren and Washington.