Update, 6:38 p.m.: Councilwoman Karen Toles issued a statement apologizing for her actions on Wednesday.
“On Feb. 22 I received a citation for an unsafe lane change and a warning for speeding. I was leaving a meeting and was late for my next appointment. I consider moving violations serious matters and I regret the incident. I intend to pay the appropriate fine for these traffic violations.”
Police spokeswoman Julie Parker said the traffic stop is under review, but that police aren’t conducting an investigation.
“We will look at this incident and the way it played out from start to finish,”
Parker said.
Maryland state law doesn’t define a particular speed as reckless driving. A person can be found guilty of reckless driving if driving “in wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property,” as well as for negligent driving.
Speeding 20 mph over the limit carries five points on a state driver’s license. Reckless driving carries six points.
A driver’s license is suspended once eight points are accumulated, and revoked after receiving 12 points.
Original Post:
A Prince George’s County Council member was pulled over in a county-owned vehicle traveling 105 mph on the Capital Beltway on Feb. 22, according to a police source.
Councilwoman Karen Toles, D-Suitland, was caught speeding on the 55 mph highway near Branch Avenue by a Prince George’s County squad car. She was issued a citation for an unsafe lane change, which carries a $90 fine, and issued a warning for going 50 mph over the speed limit.
Police say the warning is consistent with the “typical discretion” police officers are granted when dealing with speeding motorists.
Toles could not be immediately reached for comment.
