Medford Police Officer Facing OUI Charges

MEDFORD (CBS) – A Medford police officer is facing charges after he allegedly drove drunk and fled from police after a hit and run crash.

Shawn Norton, 43, of Reading, was arraigned Thursday on charges of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, leaving the scene of a property damage accident, failure to stop for police, speeding, and failure to operate a vehicle within marked lanes.

Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan said that Wednesday just after 11 p.m. a driver called Reading police to say they were following a car that was involved in a hit and run crash in Wilmington.

Reading police found Norton driving a car with heavy front end damage near the intersection of John Carver Road and Hartshorn Street.

Officers tried to stop Norton, but he allegedly ignored police lights, continued driving, and made several turns before stopping at Birch Meadow School.

Police said they ordered Norton out of his car several times, but he ignored several of the commands before getting out.

According to police, Norton was unsteady on his feet, smelled of alcohol and had difficulty following directions.

Norton's bail was set at $100 cash and he is next scheduled to appear in court on April 21.