West Michigan Lawmaker Flips Jeep, Arrested For OWI

West Michigan State Representative Bryan Posthumus is expressing regret and remorse after what appears to be a drunk driving accident on Friday. The representative, in his first term as the representative for the 73rd district, was arrested after his Jeep hit a mailbox and flipped over near his family home in Oakfield Township.

When booked into the Kent County Correctional Facility, the lawmaker allegedly registered a .13 blood alcohol level, currently a .08 level is considered legally impaired in Michigan.

In a prepared statement to the media, Posthumus says:

I am deeply disappointed in myself for putting other people in jeopardy by driving after drinking alcohol. There is no excuse for what happened, and I take full and complete responsibility for my actions. To my family, friends, colleagues and constituents who I serve, I sincerely apologize and ask forgiveness. I am grateful that no one else was injured because of my mistake...I will work very hard to regain the trust, respect, and support of my loved ones, my fellow state representatives, and the wonderful citizens in my district.

In referencing a prior OWI arrest in January 2013, Posthumus admitted he has a drinking problem and will begin attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.

Posthumus currently represents Michigan's 73rd District in the state house. That district covers much of Kent County including East Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Charter Township, Cannon Township, Plainfield Township, and more.

Bryan is the son of Dick Posthumus, who was lieutenant governor from 1999 through 2003. Currently his sister, Lisa Posthumus Lyons, serves as Kent County clerk.