60th District Assemblywoman Sabrina Cervantes attends a conference in San Bernadino, May 10, 2019. Sabrina Cervantes 7
Sacramento, California – State Senator Sabrina Cervantes released drug test results Wednesday that she says clear her of allegations that she was driving under the influence during a car crash earlier this week in Sacramento. The lab report, which shows no detectable levels of drugs in her system, was taken more than 24 hours after the incident as part of what Cervantes called a commitment to transparency.
“The accusation that I was driving under the influence is utterly false,” Cervantes said in a statement. “I take this matter seriously and in the interest of transparency, I am releasing my hospital exam report and hospital lab results.”
According to Cervantes, she voluntarily submitted to a urine drug screen at 4:27 p.m. on May 20, the day after the crash. The test showed no traces of drugs including cocaine, THC, opiates, or amphetamines. She also released a redacted copy of her hospital evaluation from the day of the accident, which reported a blood alcohol level of less than 0.01 percent. The medical exam noted complaints of pain in her lower back, hip, and knee, but stated she was not prescribed any medication.
The Sacramento Police Department, which met Cervantes at a local hospital following the collision, previously said officers suspected she was under the influence of drugs but did not specify the basis for that suspicion. Police also collected a blood sample from Cervantes at the hospital, which has been submitted to the county crime lab for analysis. Results from that test are still pending.
Cervantes strongly denied any wrongdoing, saying: “The Sacramento Police Department’s accusations are unjust and hold no truth. Again, I expect this matter to be quickly and justly resolved.”
Senate President Pro Tem Mike McGuire voiced support for Cervantes amid the investigation, calling her a “fierce advocate” and urging a swift resolution. “I stand by her in this difficult time,” he said.
The Sacramento District Attorney’s Office has not yet decided whether to file charges, stating it will await the final results of the police-administered blood test before deciding.
In the meantime, Cervantes has vowed to continue her work in the Legislature while defending her reputation.
