Republican lieutenant governor candidate Shawn Oliver announced Sunday he was suspending his campaign after being arrested Saturday night on charges of operating under the influence (OUI) of alcohol. Oliver, a New Bedford city councilor and Bristol County House of Corrections officer, was released on personal recognizance Monday after pleading not guilty in New Bedford District Court.
Oliver’s arrest followed a reported crash in which his vehicle overturned after striking multiple parked cars, according to New Bedford police. The incident occurred at approximately 11:40 p.m. on October 17 near the intersection of Dartmouth Street and Rockdale Avenue.
Oliver, 42, faces charges including OUI, negligent operation, marked lanes violation, and speeding. His next court appearance is scheduled for November 16. The arrest came less than 24 hours after early voting began in Massachusetts.
In a statement released Sunday afternoon, Oliver said he made the decision to suspend his campaign to avoid overshadowing the election. “This election is too important to be overshadowed by personal matters,” he wrote. “I want to sincerely thank everyone who has supported me throughout this journey and ask that my family’s privacy be respected during this difficult time.”
Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Minogue, Oliver’s running mate, had publicly called for his suspension shortly after the arrest became public. Minogue’s campaign did not respond to requests for further comment.
Police reports indicate Oliver was driving a black Lincoln Navigator when he failed to proceed after a traffic light turned green, leading to a witness reporting the incident. Officers responding to the crash scene found five parked vehicles damaged, two of which sustained extensive damage. Oliver was transported to St. Luke’s Hospital for treatment of minor injuries before being arrested.
Oliver’s attorney did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The Massachusetts Republican Party has not issued a statement regarding the suspension.
The incident marks a significant setback for Oliver’s campaign, which had positioned him as a conservative voice in the race against incumbent Democratic Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll and Gov. Maura Healey. Oliver’s dual roles as a city councilor and correctional officer had been central to his political identity, emphasizing law enforcement experience and local governance.
The arrest also raises questions about the vetting process for candidates, particularly those with public safety roles. Oliver’s position at the Bristol County House of Corrections did not appear to be a factor in his campaign’s response to the charges.
The case will proceed through the court system independently of the election, with Oliver’s legal and political futures remaining uncertain as the November 3 general election approaches.