Prosecutors Dismiss Drunken Driving Charge Against Ex-Durham Police Captain

Taylor, a 20-year veteran of the force and the former head of the department's criminal investigation division, pleaded guilty to less serious charges of careless and reckless driving and obstructing and delaying an officer. He was fined $150 plus court costs.

Taylor was fired June 3, following a May 16 accident in which Taylor's unmarked detective's car -- a 1992 Ford Taurus -- rolled down a 50-foot embankment in northern Durham County.

Taylor was accused of leaving the scene in someone else's car while troopers investigating the accident had their backs turned.

Although they could not administer a blood-alcohol test, troopers said there was sufficient evidence to charge Taylor with driving while impaired. A blood-alcohol test was performed by the city, but it was more than eight hours after the accident. Results were sealed as part of the police department's internal investigation.

Taylor's attorney, James Williams, said his client wants his job back.Listen toauorReal Audiofile.

Taylor's future with the Durham Police Department remains to be seen.