New Bedford Councilor Dunn Needs to Resign Right Now [OPINION]

Ward 3 City Councilor Hugh Dunn needs to tell the people of New Bedford the truth about his May 1 car crash. More importantly, Dunn needs to resign and begin addressing some personal issues, including his health and what will likely be a criminal case against him.

The Standard-Times has obtained a Massachusetts State Police report on its investigation into the crash which occurred in a parking lot in the downtown area at about 1:30 a.m. The report, combined with the findings of the New Bedford Police and the Bristol County District Attorney's office, appear to indicate that Dunn was drunk at the time his vehicle struck two other cars and then a curbing.

D.A. Thomas Quinn has recommended that Dunn face charges for operating while under the influence and leaving the scene of accident damage resulting. A court magistrate will consider the validity of the evidence and determine whether Dunn faces charges.

Evidence gathered so far indicates Dunn has lied to the public and the police about what happened. What is equally disturbing is that it appears as though investigating officers for the New Bedford Police Department may have also lied to protect Dunn. In a statement, Police Chief Paul Oliveira said, "appropriate discipline is forthcoming in this case," as well it should be.

The alleged crimes are concerning enough. That Dunn may have lied about what happened, and police officers may have tried to help him to cover his tracks, is even more disturbing.

This type of behavior cannot be tolerated in New Bedford. Councilor Dunn, please step down now.

Barry Richard is the host of The Barry Richard Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. Contact him at barry@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @BarryJRichard58. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.