David Robbins
By ZEINAB NAJM
Sunday Times Newspapers
RIVERVIEW — Newly sworn-in Councilman David Robbins, 34, was charged in connection to an alcohol-related non-fatal car crash hours after the Nov. 2 general election.
He faces one count of operating while intoxicated, one count of reckless driving, and one count of leaving the scene of an accident, according to a press release dated Nov. 12 from Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy. The release was sent to media Nov. 17.
Robbins was arraigned Nov. 17 in 27th District Court and received a $5,000 bond, 10 percent, with a required alcohol tether. His probable cause conference is scheduled for 1:15 p.m. Nov. 24.
“A dangerous event was put in motion by the defendant’s alleged actions leading to these criminal charges,” Worthy said. “It’s shocking and disappointing that this happened less than 24 hours after he was elected to the Riverview City Council.”
About 1:38 a.m. Nov. 4, Robbins allegedly was intoxicated and driving at a high rate of speed when he crashed into a tree in the median of Fort Street near Voight Avenue in Riverview. He then left the scene on foot.
A swearing-in ceremony took place at city hall Nov. 15 where Robbins took the oath of office after winning a seat on the council in the election.
Riverview Mayor Andrew Swift released a statement regarding the charges Nov. 17.
“While Mr. Robbins is presumed innocent until proven guilty, we take these allegations very seriously,” Swift said. “City staff and officials are cooperating and working closely with law enforcement and government agencies in this matter. Because this is an active investigation, the city’s comments are limited at this time.
“No one is above the law in the city of Riverview, and the city supports the pursuit of justice in this matter. We hold our elected officials to a high standard of conduct and expect that the best interests of our community will be foremost in the outcome of this investigation.”
(Zeinab Najm can be reached at zeinabnajm92@gmail.com.)