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Part-time Watertown City Judge Eric Swartz was arrested for alleged drunk driving in Lewis County. According to the Lewis County Sheriff's Office, Swartz's vehicle was found illegally parked on Bardo Road, close to the county's public safety building. A deputy investigating the situation reportedly detected alcohol on Swartz's breath, and his blood alcohol content was allegedly .08 percent.
Swartz is set to step down from his judicial position at the end of the year. The State Commission on Judicial Conduct had previously announced that Swartz agreed to resign early due to a condition affecting his ability to perform his duties effectively. This decision followed a 2024 complaint regarding his capacity to fulfill his judicial responsibilities.
The incident has drawn attention as Swartz's resignation was already in motion, and the arrest adds to the challenges he faces as he prepares to leave his post. The legal proceedings related to the arrest are expected to unfold in the coming months.
