Athens-Clarke County Police dispatcher arrested for DUI

ATHENS, Ga. - Athens-Clarke County 911 dispatcher, Laura Ricketts, is longer on the job after being charged and arrested for a DUI in Athens.

On Saturday, Athens-Clarke County police responded to a multi-vehicle accident at the intersection of Hull and Broad street.

"It's disappointing that she was involved in this incident and it's unfortunate for her," Athens-Clarke County Police Captain Keith Kelley said.

A police investigation found Ricketts to be the driver of the at-fault vehicle. According to police, she ran a red light and hit a vehicle but kept driving. She then went on to hit another vehicle.

"She had slurred speech, was unsteady and admitted to drinking,"

Officers questioned her and noticed the smell of an alcoholic beverage and she wasn't able to stand up steadily.

"If you are drinking, just call someone... whether that be a taxi, an Uber or a friend, just call," Kelley said.

Ricketts was arrested and taken to the Clarke County Jail.

"We hold our employees to high ethical standards just like any other person," Kelley said.

The Athens-Clark County Police Department terminated her employment as of Nov. 13, 2017.