DAUPHIN COUNTY, Pa. (WHP) — A county commissioner charged with DUI fought back tears Wednesday while delivering a statement about the situation, marking his first appearance at a commissioners' meeting since he crashed his county vehicle in April.
On April 2, George Hartwick allegedly crashed the car in a parking garage on his way to a commissioners' meeting. He was subsequently charged with DUI after detectives said he admitted to drinking half a bottle of vodka before getting behind the wheel that day.
He was then stripped of his oversights as commissioner amid calls from the board's chairman for his resignation.
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On Wednesday, Hartwick addressed his absence from recent commissioners meeting, saying he entered a 28-day intensive rehabilitation program the day after the DUI.
"Though it is often a deeply private struggle, I understand that as a public official I owe the public full transparency and accountability," Hartwick said. "I want my constituents to know that I’m engaged in a continuing care plan that includes trauma informed therapy, intensive outpatient treatment and a faith-based recovery program."
He confirmed that would continue to hold his position but vowed never to drive a county car ever again.
I’m fully committed to abstinence and the daily work required to sustain it. As a part of that commitment, I have relinquished my county vehicle and vow never to drive a county car again.
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"I believe the best way to show the power of recovery, self-help and community-based care is to continue in my role, to inspire others who are also battling alcohol or mental health challenges," Hartwick said. "While stepping back might seem like an easier path, I chose the harder one: to stay, to heal and attempt to lead by example."
Hartwick teared up toward the end of the message before thanking his family.
"I promised I wouldn't do this," he said, tearing up. "I'm forever thankful to my family for their unconditional love and to those who supported me through one of the darkest days in my life. True character is revealed in times of struggle. I will dedicate the rest of my life to earning back the trust and forgiveness of those I serve and to proving that recovery, resilience and redemption are not only possible, but powerful."
Hartwick's entire statement can be read below:
“On April 2, I arrived at the commissioners’ meeting in a state unfit to serve. I take full responsibility for my actions and deeply regret letting down my constituents, colleagues and family.
“Within minutes of the incident, I recognized its gravity and sought help. The very next morning, I entered an inpatient treatment program, determined to rise above this very public relapse after a long period of sobriety. I successfully completed a 28-day intensive rehabilitation program, and I know now more than ever that recovery is not owned, it's rented, and the rent's due every day.
“I’m fully committed to abstinence and the daily work required to sustain it. As a part of that commitment, I have relinquished my county vehicle and vow never to drive a county car again.
“Alcohol Use Disorder affects more than 14 million Americans. Though it is often a deeply private struggle, I understand that as a public official I owe the public full transparency and accountability. I want my constituents to know that I’m engaged in a continuing care plan that includes trauma informed therapy, intensive outpatient treatment and a faith-based recovery program.
“Throughout my life, I’ve believed in giving people that make mistakes another chance. And I now humbly ask for the same grace. I believe we should not be judged solely by our lowest moments or our biggest failures. Our greatest strength can emerge from our deepest pain. I believe the best way to show the power of recovery, self-help and community-based care is to continue in my role, to inspire others who are also battling alcohol or mental health challenges. While stepping back might seem like an easier path, I chose the harder one: to stay, to heal and attempt to lead by example.
“This disease has taught me humility, compassion and the true meaning of gratitude... I'm forever thankful to my family for their unconditional love and to those who supported me through one of the darkest days in my life. True character is revealed in times of struggle. I will dedicate the rest of my life to earning back the trust and forgiveness of those I serve and to proving that recovery, resilience and redemption are not only possible, but powerful. The best chapters are yet to come. Thank you."