:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/7755601/20120630_kdl_ac2_145.0.jpg)
Colorado Rockies first baseman Todd Helton was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol early Wednesday morning in Thornton, Colo., the club announced in a statement.
Per the police report, Helton was pulled over at 2:39 a.m. near 128th and Colorado Boulevard (via Troy Renck). Thornton police have formally charged Helton with careless driving and driving above the legal limit, according to Thomas Harding.
From the Colorado Rockies:
"We were extremely disappointed to learn that Todd was arrested this morning. This type of behavior is taken very seriously by our organization. We know that he clearly understands the seriousness of his poor decision, the harm that could have been inflicted on others and the embarrassment his mistake has caused to himself, his family, the Colorado Rockies organization and to Major League Baseball.
Todd is taking full accountability for his actions with his family, his fans and the organization. The man we have grown to know has strong values that are grounded in his family and hard work. Todd clearly understands the severity of the situation."
Helton has released a statement of his own (via Harding):
“Last evening I exercised poor judgment and was charged with drinking and driving after driving to a gas station near my house. I am very sorry and embarrassed by my actions. I hold myself to a high standard and take my responsibility as a public figure very seriously. My entire career, I have worked to set a positive example for my family and in our community and I fell far short of this standard.
I sincerely ask my family, the Colorado Rockies Organization, Major League Baseball and the community to accept my apology. I make no excuses and accept full responsibility for my actions. I humbly ask your forgiveness."
Helton, 38, is entering the final year of a restructured contract that was originally signed prior to the 2003 season. This will be his 17th, and likely last, big league season. Over the course of his career, Helton has amassed five All-Star selections, three gold glove awards and a lifetime .320/.419/.545 batting line.
More to come on this troubling situation.