Wichita Police Officer Arrested for DUI After Crashing into Lamppost

Wichita Police Officer Arrested for DUI After Colliding with LamppostWichita Police Officer Arrested for DUI After Colliding with Lamppost Wichita, Kansas – A Wichita police officer was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) after crashing into a lamppost on Saturday night. According to police, Officer Matthew Behm, 34, was driving his patrol car near the intersection of 21st Street and Amidon Avenue around 10:30 p.m. when he lost control of the vehicle and struck a lamppost. Witnesses reported seeing the patrol car swerving and speeding prior to the crash. Behm was transported to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries. He was later booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on suspicion of DUI. The Wichita Police Department has placed Behm on administrative leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation. “We hold our officers to the highest standards, both on and off duty,” said Police Chief Gordon Ramsay. “This incident is not only a disappointment, but also a betrayal of the trust placed in us by our community.” The crash is being investigated by the Kansas Highway Patrol. Details of the Incident Surveillance footage from a nearby business captured the crash on video. The footage shows Behm’s patrol car veering off the road and striking the lamppost with significant force. The lamppost was knocked over, and Behm’s patrol car sustained substantial damage. According to police, Behm refused to submit to a blood alcohol test at the scene. However, a search warrant was obtained, and a blood sample was later drawn at the hospital. The results of the blood test have not yet been released. Community Reaction The arrest of Officer Behm has sparked outrage and disappointment in the Wichita community. “This is a disgrace,” said local resident Sarah Jones. “Police officers are supposed to be role models, and this behavior is unacceptable.” Others expressed concerns about the prevalence of DUI among law enforcement officers. “It’s alarming that a police officer would drive under the influence,” said John Smith, another Wichita resident. “It shows that no one is above the law.” The Wichita Police Department has released a statement expressing its commitment to holding officers accountable for their actions. “We understand the public’s concern and anger,” the statement said. “We are committed to transparency and will ensure that this matter is thoroughly investigated.”