Second-in-command of the California prison system, Scott Kernan, and a police chief, David Baker, both prove that alcoholism explains any misbehaviors that close people may observe.
Scott Kernan, 47, appointed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger in November 2008 as undersecretary for prison operations for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, suspended for six weeks without pay as punishment for driving his state-provided car while under the influence. Kernan, whose position places him as the second-ranking administrator of California’s prison system, says he is “deeply remorseful” and will plead guilty. But Mr. Kernan, will you seek sobriety? And will you begin to inspire those serving under you to do the same?
Alexandria, Virginia police chief David Baker, arrested on charges of DUI after crashing his unmarked city vehicle. Baker’s blood alcohol level was .19 percent, for which anyone Baker’s age, 58, is almost certain proof of alcoholism. Baker has been with the Alexandria police department for 19 years after a 21-year stint as a D.C. police officer. The driver of the other vehicle suffered whiplash, neck and back injuries. The addictionologist might inquire as to the number of incidents there were prior to this near-miss of a tragedy for which close people—or the law—could have intervened, but didn’t.