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U.S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson Will Not Face Criminal Charges for Recent Traffic Accidents
Los Angeles County prosecutors revealed today they would not be filing criminal charges against former United States Commerce Secretary John Bryson, who was involved in a set of minor traffic accidents in the San Gabriel Valley in June.
The June 9 incidents were immediately attributed to Bryson suffering a seizure and its after effects. Bryson initially rear-ended a vehicle in San Gabriel, spoke with the three men in the vehicle he struck, and left the scene, hitting the same car again. He drove into the neighboring city of Rosemead, where he struck another vehicle. The last crash left Bryson unconscious behind the wheel of his Lexus.
Though an investigation was launched into the string of small crashes, ultimately, prosecutors today say there just isn't enough to prove criminal behavior. Here's the official report from the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office:
Suspect collided with a car, backed into it again, drove off and was ultimately involved in a collision with a second car. The suspect was found unconscious behind the wheel and transported to the hospital. He appeared disoriented at the scene and the hospital. At the hospital he was treated by the admitting doctor and a neurologist. Blood tested negative for alcohol and controlled substances but positive for Ambien. Quantitative analysis for Ambien showed low end of therapeutic levels. Criminalist can not say it was a factor in driving or the collisions. Both treating doctors agree that suspect was suffering from confusion following a seizure and crashed as a result. Based on doctors' opinions there is insufficient evidence to show knowing failure to provide personal information for hit and run. Further, based on blood test and medical condition there is insufficient evidence to prove driving under the influence.
Bryson has a home in L.A. County in San Marino. President Obama announced Bryson's resignation on June 21; Bryson had been on medical leave following the June 9 accidents.
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