Bryson Won't Be Charged for Hit-and-Runs

Though ex-commerce secretary tested positive for Ambien
By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff
Posted Jul 3, 2012 11:58 PM CDT
Bryson Won't Be Charged for Hit-and-Runs
In this February 2012 photo, then-Secretary of Commerce John Bryson speaks at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building in Washington.    (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Prosecutors have decided not to charge former Commerce Secretary John Bryson over two alleged hit-and-runs in California last month. Two doctors concluded that Bryson's strange series of traffic collisions was the result of confusion following a seizure. The 68-year-old—who resigned after the incident—tested negative for alcohol and controlled substances but low levels of Ambien were found in his bloodstream, reports the Los Angeles Times.

Investigators, however, could not determine if the sleeping drug played a role in the traffic accidents. "Both treating doctors agree that suspect was suffering from confusion following a seizure and crashed as a result," court documents say. "Based on doctors' opinions there is insufficient evidence to show knowing failure to provide personal information for hit-and-run." Two days before the accident, Bryson delivered the commencement address at the alma mater of his four daughters, and students and parents in attendance noticed that he mangled words and repeated himself. (More John Bryson stories.)

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