Beloved St. Louis Cardinals broadcaster Dan McLaughlin was charged with “persistent” driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Creve Coeur, Missouri.
On Monday, news broke that Bally Sports Midwest’s Cardinals broadcaster Dan McLaughlin was arrested outside of St. Louis for a DWI after police were notified of a vehicle possibly being driven by an inebriated driver.
From the St. Louis Post-Dispatch on McLaughlin’s arrest:
"Prior to the arrest, police said they got at least two calls about a white BMW, which was the vehicle make and model McLaughlin was driving. One person reported that the car was driving in an S pattern on Ladue and, at times, into oncoming traffic.A homeowner also called police and said a man in a white BMW was parked outside his house, “not making sense” and appeared intoxicated."
Under Missouri law, persistent offenders are not eligible for parole or probation until the completion of either thirty days of imprisonment or sixty days of community service.
Here is the official statement from Bally Sports via Jeff Jones of the Belleview News-Democrat:
This is McLaughlin’s third DWI arrest as Cardinals broadcaster. In 2010, McLaughlin plead guilty to driving under the influence (DUI). One year later, he was arrested for DWI after an alcohol-related car crash.
Given his prior arrests, it’s very difficult to imagine McLaughlin broadcasting another St. Louis Cardinals game.
Dan McLaughlin has immediately expressed remorse for his arrest and will be seeking counseling. We here at Redbird Rants sincerely hope that McLaughlin receives the help he needs.
Our thoughts and prayers are with McLaughlin’s family during this time. If you happen to know anyone who is struggling with alcohol, let him or her know there are solutions. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) provides resources for those who struggle with alcohol addiction.
The SAMHSA National Helpline is 1-800-662-HELP (4357) if you need to reach out. You can also text 435748 (HELP4U) as well.