A Chicago commissioner has found herself in hot water after allegedly causing a three-car pileup while under the influence. Samantha Steele, 45, who serves as commissioner for the second district of the Cook County Board of Review, was arrested around 8:50 p.m. on Sunday after crashing her vehicle and causing a multi-car accident in North Chicago.
The Chicago Sun Times, first to report on the incident, detailed the events leading up to Steele’s arrest. According to the outlet, officers arrived at the scene to find extensive damage to the vehicles involved and Steele lying on the sidewalk. A police report states that the officer noticed “bloodshot and glassy” eyes and detected a strong odor of alcohol coming from Steele’s breath. An open bottle of red wine was found on the passenger side floor of her car.
When questioned about her alcohol consumption, Steele reportedly refused to cooperate and instead demanded her lawyer. Despite requesting legal representation, Steele is said to have called a member of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, Scott Britton, who subsequently referred her to a criminal attorney.
Steele’s refusal to participate in a field sobriety test led to her arrest. She faces charges of misdemeanor driving under the influence and is scheduled to appear in court on December 27th.
This incident comes at a time of heightened scrutiny over the actions of Democratic officials. The arrest raises questions about Steele’s judgment and her ability to fulfill her duties as a commissioner. It also raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest given her alleged attempts to contact a fellow commissioner before seeking legal counsel.
Steele’s election to the Cook County Board of Review in 2022 secured a four-year term ending in 2026. However, the recent DUI charge and allegations of inappropriate behavior may threaten her position and future prospects. Fox News Digital reached out to Steele and the Cook County Board of Review for comment but received no response.
