PINE LAWN, Mo. — Pine Lawn Alderman Gerald Metts is facing DUI charges nearly three months after a crash in St. Louis County, according to court documents.
Officers from the North County Police Cooperative said they were investigating a shooting scene at 1 a.m. near the intersection of Ella and Kienlen avenues when a 2021 Chevrolet Equinox driven by Metts crashed into a nearby guardrail and chain link fence above the investigation scene.
"The Chevy Equinox came to rest with its front end and front wheels hanging off the edge ... above our crime scene," an officer wrote in a court document.
Investigators, approaching the vehicle, said they found Metts as the vehicle's sole occupant and driver. They also said a strong odor of alcohol was in the vehicle and coming from Metts.
“What’s your name?” an officer could be heard asking Metts on the police body cam video.
“Gerald Metts. I’m just an alderperson,” Metts said.
The body cam footage showed Metts being placed under arrest at the scene.
"I was just heading home, and I wasn't even paying attention. I really wasn't," he told an officer.
“The officers saw a 2021 Chevy Equinox hanging over a retaining wall that had just driven through a guardrail and a chain-link fence," Major Ron Martin with the North County Police Cooperative said. "Ultimately, Mr. Metts was taken into custody for suspicion of driving while intoxicated. I’m not sure of any physical evidence that was located, but I do know ultimately a breath test was administered."
Metts refused medical treatment at the scene and was given field sobriety tests, which he failed, according to court documents. The documents also said he blew a .154 BAC, nearly two times the legal limit.
Metts reportedly showed up at the police station11 days after the arrest happened, asking "Is there something that could be done?"
“It is ironic that Mr. Metts put on the agenda at Monday’s Board of Aldermen meeting that he wants the removal of the North County Police Cooperative from Pine Lawn after these charges,” Martin said.
Metts wasn’t home when 5 On Your Side stopped by his residence Wednesday. He lives with his older brother.
“I find the charges against my brother shocking," said the alderman’s brother, Daniel Metts. "He’s not home now. He has hired a lawyer, and yes, he intends to fight the charges."
5 On Your Side also called the embattled alderman and several of his colleagues. No one wanted to talk on camera.
Pine Lawn Mayor Terry Epps told 5 On Your Side that the City of Pine Lawn has no comment on the DUI charges against Metts.