Until his resignation this past June 6, David Griffin, 65, was the volunteer president of the East Prince County chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving in Prince Edward Island. A career law man Griffin seemed to be the perfect MADD volunteer, using his experience and insight to combat drinking and driving. Griffin was well-regarded for being an engaged and active volunteer.
Unfortunately, when it came to putting his money where his mouth is, it turns out Griffin preferred a bottle at his lips. Griffin was pulled over on June 5th under suspicion of driving while under the influence, though charges were not formally filed until July 31. Griffin has yet to enter a plea and his next court date is August 27.
Andrew Murie, MADD’s CEO, said he was shocked by the charges, but noted Griffin was otherwise a “model” volunteer. Murie also said he had some “compassion” for Griffin, and that the incident doesn’t stop or impede the work continued work of the organization. Murie also noted that in his 18 years as CEO of MADD, this if the first time he’s had to deal with a volunteer being charged with impaired driving.
Mothers Against Drunk Driving has emerged as one of the most vocal and powerful social issue groups in North America, helping to push through stricter enforcement of drunk driving laws, and stiffer penalties for those who do drive while under the influence. To have one of their own swept up in a drinking and driving case is embarrassing, to say the least.
Not only was Griffin the local chapter President for MADD, but he had served as a police officer for 45 years and had worked his way up to deputy chief at the Summerside Police Services. Unfortunately, it appears that Griffin may not have been as good at following the law as he was at enforcing it.
