Updated 4 p.m. Aug. 18.
Whiteville City Council woman Helen B. Holden was arrested this morning (Sunday) for driving while impaired.
Holden, 49, was released on $1,500 unsecured bond, according to Detention Center records. Her address was listed as 400 N. Madison St. Whiteville.
In a press release Monday, WPD Chief Paul Rockenbach said Holden was observed running a stop light which led WPD officers to execute a traffic stop.
“As with any individual charged with a crime, it is important to state that Ms. Holden is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law,” the chief said.
“I want to make clear that I stand firmly behind the professionalism and actions of my officers in carrying out their duties during this incident. While Ms. Holden holds an elected position, she should not be persecuted or continuously ridiculed for this arrest solely because of her political position. She is entitled to the same due process and fair treatment as every other citizen.
Rockenbach said the WPD enforces the law equally for all suspects, especially impaired driving laws. Holden did not get special treatment, and he asked that the public refrain from attacking her arrest online.
“The Whiteville Police Department takes a strong and unwavering stance against drinking and driving,” he wrote. “Impaired driving places lives at risk and endangers everyone on our roads. Our mission as law enforcement is to protect the safety of our citizens, uphold the law, and ensure that accountability is applied fairly and equally.”
Holden is running for reelection to the Whiteville City Council in the November election. She and fellow incumbent Vicki Pait are vying with Linda Bright Smith for the two available seats on the board.
This is a developing story.
