Te Andre Gomion, a candidate for the Lauderdale Lakes commission, was found over the weekend slumped behind the wheel of a vehicle that was still running. He was allegedly inebriated, according to police.
According to a Broward Sheriff's Office report, Gomion's car was parked and his foot was on the brake. But the engine was still running, and he was fast asleep at the wheel.
The report says Gomion, 25, couldn't explain how he had arrived there.
According to the report, Gomion told police he had been at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on Saturday night. However, he was found asleep at the wheel in a parking lot located at 2600 N. State Road 7.
Gomion told police he had had three or four beers. But the police report says that his vehicle reeked of alcohol and that Gomion slurred his words when he spoke to the officer. He was also disoriented, the report says.
Gomion was given a sobriety test, which he failed. He was arrested and booked on a DUI charge.
Once an intern for Lauderale Lakes City Manager Jonathan Allen, Gomion is running for the City Commission Seat #2 on November 4.
On Monday, per the Sun Sentinel, Gomion claimed that the report is false and denied even drinking booze that night.
From the Sentinel:
"I'm very innocent; I was late-night canvassing, putting up signs and never had any drinks," he said. "This is propaganda. I'm running for office, and that takes a lot out of a person. I'm running on an idea that resonates to the residents of my city."
Among some of his campaign pledges on his website, Gomion says he will work with BSO to "keep the city safe" if elected.
"My vision is to provide leadership that will result in vibrant City with strong community and economic development programs and diverse opportunities that all residents are able to enjoy," he writes.
According to his website, Gomion is writing a book on state and local government for young students.
Follow @NewTimesBroward
