Breaking down in tears at the well of the state House of Representatives, Rep. Dan Pabon (D-Denver) admitted to wrongdoing after being arrested on St. Patrick’s Day for DUI in downtown Denver.
“I plan on wholeheartedly accepting the penalties that come from my actions,” Pabon said.
Pabon, who serves as Speaker Pro Tempore in the House Democratic leadership, was arrested by Denver police on Thursday.
The officer stopped Pabon for an improper turn and reported that the lawmaker smelled of alcohol, slurred his speech and had trouble balancing during the traffic stop.
Pabon said the irony of his arrest while sponsoring laws to create harsher DUI punishments as a legislator is “not lost” on him.
“I will never repeat this mistake,” Pabon said in a choked voice dotted with sobbing. “And I sincerely, and truly apologize to my wife and kids, my family, and my colleagues, and our community.”
WATCH: Rep. Pabon's tearful apology
This year, Pabon ushered a bill to the desk of Gov. John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado) to allow judges to force people convicted of DUI to appear in person before victim impact panels to hear firsthand the damage drunk driving can do.
Pabon said his mistake makes him even more committed to that legislation.
During the traffic stop, Pabon was also cited for failing to have his legislative license plate on his vehicle.
As of yet, Democratic leadership has yet to seek any punishment for Pabon in the House.
He could be stripped of his leadership post or lose committee assignments if his leadership decides such punishment is warranted.
