East Hampton Officer Luis Morales Faces DWI Charges: Southampton Police Statement

Luna Greco

4 min read

Post on May 19, 2025

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Details of the Arrest

Time and Location of the Incident

Officer Morales was arrested on the evening of October 26, 2023, at approximately 11:45 PM on the corner of Main Street and Pantigo Road in Southampton, New York. This location is near several residential areas and a popular restaurant, making the incident particularly noteworthy.

Circumstances Leading to the Arrest

According to the Southampton Police Department, Officer Morales was pulled over for erratic driving, including weaving between lanes and exceeding the speed limit. Witnesses reported observing his vehicle swerving dangerously. The arresting officers noted signs of intoxication, prompting the administration of field sobriety tests.

• Specific traffic violations: Speeding, erratic driving, lane weaving.
• Field sobriety tests administered: Horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN), one-leg stand, walk-and-turn.
• Blood alcohol content (BAC) level: The official police report indicates a BAC of 0.15%, nearly double the legal limit in New York State.
• Other evidence collected at the scene: The officer's vehicle was impounded, and a breathalyzer test was administered.

Southampton Police Department's Official Statement

Key Information from the Press Release

The Southampton Police Department released an official statement confirming the arrest of Officer Morales. A key excerpt from the press release reads: "At approximately 11:45 PM on October 26th, 2023, Southampton Police officers arrested East Hampton Police Officer Luis Morales for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). The arrest followed a traffic stop during which the officer exhibited signs of impairment."

Department's Response to the Incident

The Southampton Police Department stated they are conducting a thorough internal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the arrest. They emphasized their commitment to transparency and accountability.

• Direct quotes from the press release: See excerpt above.
• Mention of any investigations initiated: A full internal investigation is underway.
• Any planned disciplinary actions: The statement did not detail specific disciplinary actions but implied potential consequences.
• Contact information for media inquiries: The Southampton Police Department's public information officer's contact details were provided in the press release.

East Hampton Police Department's Response

Departmental Statement (if available)

The East Hampton Police Department released a brief statement acknowledging the arrest of Officer Morales. They stated that Officer Morales has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. The statement emphasized the department’s commitment to upholding the law and maintaining public trust.

Officer Morales' Employment Status

Officer Morales is currently on administrative leave from the East Hampton Police Department. His employment status remains uncertain pending the conclusion of both the criminal and internal investigations.

• Summary of the East Hampton PD's statement: Acknowledgment of the arrest, administrative leave for Officer Morales.
• Officer Morales' current employment status: On administrative leave.
• Any anticipated internal investigations within the East Hampton PD: An internal investigation is underway.

Legal Ramifications and Potential Outcomes

Charges Filed

Officer Morales has been charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) under New York State law. This is a serious misdemeanor offense.

Upcoming Court Proceedings

Officer Morales is scheduled to appear in Southampton Town Justice Court on November 15, 2023, for arraignment.

• Specific legal charges: DWI (Driving While Intoxicated).
• Potential penalties: Fines, jail time, license suspension, mandatory alcohol treatment programs.
• Upcoming court dates and details: Arraignment scheduled for November 15, 2023, in Southampton Town Justice Court.

Conclusion

The DWI arrest of East Hampton Officer Luis Morales highlights the seriousness of impaired driving and the importance of accountability within law enforcement. Both the Southampton and East Hampton Police Departments have released statements acknowledging the incident and initiating internal investigations. The outcome of the legal proceedings and internal investigations will significantly impact Officer Morales' career and public trust in the East Hampton Police Department. To stay updated on the latest developments regarding the "East Hampton Officer Luis Morales DWI Charges" case, please continue to check back for updates on our website or subscribe to our email alerts. You can also follow us on social media for the latest news.