Oliver suspends campaign for lieutenant gov. after OUI

From running for office to facing criminal charges, Lieutenant Governor candidate Sean Oliver is resigning from his campaign just weeks before the election. New Bedford police arresting and charging Oliver with operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Police heading to the scene of a crash on Dartmouth Street at about 11.40 p.m. Saturday night, a car flipping over after hitting five parked cars, leaving two with extensive damage. Officers say the member of New Bedford City Council is the driver and was taken to the hospital for treatment of his injuries. Just hours after the incident, Oliver releases the following statement. After careful reflection, I have made the decision to suspend my campaign for Lieutenant Governor. This election is too important to be overshadowed by personal matters. I want to sincerely thank everyone who has supported me throughout this journey and ask that my family's privacy be respected during this difficult time. Before the resignation, Governor Mike McGinnogue shares a statement saying, I'm extremely disappointed. Sean is lucky to be alive and lucky that no one innocent was hurt. There is no excuse for driving under the influence. After speaking with Sean, I'm asking him to suspend his campaign immediately and when elected, I will formally ask for his resignation. And similarly, MassGOP is sharing a statement in regards to the matter too, saying the Mass GOP supports the decision of Sean Oliver to suspend his campaign for lieutenant governor. Lives were put at risk and that is never acceptable. It's not just Republican Governor candidate Mike McGinnogue and the GOP sharing their opinions on Oliver's arrest, but those in the community are also raising their concerns and they say they think it's a good idea Oliver stepped back from his campaign. It's dangerous for the public, but at the same time, I'd like to see our elected officials face the same justice that the average citizen does. And in contrast... He did something wrong, and one wrong doesn't end his career. I hope he still wants to run, but I'm not going to vote for him. Oliver is being charged with operating a vehicle under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, a marked lanes violation, and speeding. Working for you, Lexi White, 22 News.