The Boston Herald posted a story about a recent plea deal approved for a driver charged with driving drunk in Southborough.
So far this year, the Southborough Police have made over 50 arrests for alleged OUIs on roads in town. Some of those resulted in press releases when the pullovers led to additional charges for other alleged felonious activities.
But that’s not what’s behind the one that made headlines today. The paper was interested in the identity of a man arrested last month — the current Chair of the Massachusetts Democratic Party.
The Herald highlights:
The drunk driving arrest comes as [Stephen Kerrigan], and elected officials and other members of the Massachusetts Democratic Party, have supported the push for happy hour and an extending last call at Bay State bars until 3:00 am.
(The paper also pointed to two political events at venues that serve alcohol that took place earlier in the day of the arrest. But they didn’t have confirmation that he attended either.)
Kerrigan’s arrest took place on Rte 9 in Southborough earlier this month. The SPD’s log lists the vehicle stop as taking place at midnight as Friday, June 12th became Saturday, June 13th. Kerrigan was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol (“OUI-Liquor OR .08%”). He was also charged with a negligent operation of a vehicle, and marked lanes violation.
The Herald reported that court documents show that Kerrigan pleaded guilty in Westborough District Court:
Kerrigan had pleaded guilty to the charges in Westborough District Court, where Judge Michael Welsh sentenced him to a year of probation that ends June 15, 2027. The judge also ordered his license suspended for 45 days, a period that ends August 14.
Kerrigan also paid a total of $650 in fines and fees.
As a result of his plea deal, Kerrigan’s OUI charge was continued without a finding with the negligent operation of a motor vehicle charge dismissed. He was found not responsible for the marked lanes violation.
You can read the full story here.
It’s worth noting that Sotuhborough Police have been proud to tout the number of OUI arrests made in the past couple of years and the recognition two SPD members have received from MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving).
Less than a week before Kerrigan’s arrest, the SPD posted:
Congratulations to Southborough Police Officer Theo Davis on being recognized today with the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) OUI Excellence Award at the annual MADD Law Enforcement Recognition Ceremony at Fort Devens.
Through the 51 OUI arrests he made in 2025, Officer Davis demonstrated an unwavering commitment to keeping our roadways safe. Every impaired driver removed from the roadway represents a potential tragedy prevented. These enforcement efforts help protect not only motorists, but also passengers, pedestrians and families throughout our community and beyond.
OUI enforcement is one of the most important responsibilities in law enforcement, requiring vigilance, professionalism and dedication from officers. Officer Davis’ work has made a meaningful impact on public safety, and this recognition is a testament to his commitment to serving and protecting others.
We are incredibly proud of Officer Davis for this well-deserved honor and grateful for his everyday work in keeping our community safe. Please join us in congratulating him on this outstanding achievement!
The year prior, MADD named SPD Detective O’Brien “Officer of the Year” for over 45 arrests in 2024.
Neither of Davis or O’Brien was involved in Kerrigan’s arrest. According to Chief Ryan Newell, the arresting officer was “PJ” Smarxhi.
