A Massachusetts sheriff's deputy finds himself on the wrong side of the law after being accused of drunkenly crashing his cruiser while in uniform and fleeing the scene. Richard Camargo, who's spent 32 years with the Suffolk County Sheriff's Department, now faces charges including operating under the influence of liquor, carrying a firearm while intoxicated, and leaving the scene of property damage.

As reported by CBS Boston, the incident unfolded when Camargo, allegedly at a red light, hit another car and suggested they avoid calling the police, before fleeing to a funeral home where he was serving as an honor guard. A subsequent breath test indicated a blood-alcohol content of 0.156%, nearly twice the legal limit, with authorities discovering an empty six-pack in his car.

The office of the Suffolk County DA confirmed the arraignment, according to NBC Boston, added that Camargo has now been released on personal recognizance, with orders to remain drug and alcohol-free. The Sheriff's Department described the charges as "incredibly serious" but noted Camargo's "previously stellar record of service," reflecting shock over the allegations against a long-term employee.

Court documents reveal that Camargo was swaying heavily involved with his duties when he collided with a 2024 Rav4, with the driver of the SUV claiming the deputy appeared unsteady after the incident. When the police arrived at the scene, they noted Camargo's glassy eyes and the smell of alcohol on his breath, as per Boston 25 News. Despite the allegations, Camargo's defense lawyer, Paul Anthony, is challenging the accuracy of the portable sobriety tests administered at the time of his arrest.

In a statement obtained by Boston 25 News, Suffolk County Sheriff Steven Tompkins emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "These are incredibly serious charges and we have been fully cooperating with investigating authorities about this incident." The department has pledged to conduct an internal review to address any violations of department policy. Camargo is expected to return to court on July 16th for a pre-trial hearing.