Livingston Parish councilman apologizes after DWI arrest: ‘I made a serious mistake’

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — A Livingston Parish councilmember arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated is publicly apologizing and vowing to regain the public’s trust.

Dean Coates, who represents District 8, was charged with operating while intoxicated (first offense), improper lane usage, speeding, and an expired motor vehicle inspection sticker. According to the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, the traffic stop happened around 6 p.m. Friday, April 18, on Louisiana Highway 44 near Miller Road in Springfield.

A deputy began a DWI investigation after reportedly detecting the odor of alcohol during the stop.

Coates issued a public apology Sunday on Facebook,

saying he takes full responsibility for his actions.

“Over the weekend, I was arrested for driving under the influence after leaving a crawfish boil. I take full responsibility for my actions—there is no excuse. I made a serious mistake that could have endangered others, and I am deeply sorry.

“As an elected official, I am held to a higher standard, and I intend to earn back the trust I’ve broken. I am cooperating fully with the legal process and taking steps to ensure this never happens again.

“I hope to be judged not just by this failure, but by how I respond to it—with honesty, humility, and accountability.”
— Dean Coates via Facebook

The case remains under investigation.

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