WASHINGTON – The Maryland councilwoman who led police on a high speed chase on the Beltway in February was found guilty of reckless driving and fined.
Karen Toles, a councilwoman in Prince George’s County, was stopped on Feb. 22 for traveling up to 105 mph. She was fined $90 for an unsafe lane change and issued a warning for reckless driving.
The incident caused an uproar in the community and Toles was charged with reckless driving after a further police investigation.
On Wednesday, after two and a half hours of testimony, a judge found Toles guilty and fined her $435. Toles argued that because she has already paid a fine for an unsafe lane change, the additional charge was double jeopardy.
Toles represents the areas of Capitol Heights, District Heights, Hillcrest Heights, Marlow Heights, Seat Pleasant, Suitland, Temple Hills and portions of Forestville and Oxon Hill.
WTOP’s Hank Silverberg contributed to this report. Follow WTOP on Twitter.
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