State lawmaker charged with OUI, property damage near State House

State Rep. John Lawn, representing the 10th Middlesex District, was arrested for operating under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident early Wednesday morning near the State House. Witnesses observed Lawn's SUV collide with a parked Toyota Tundra before he drove away, prompting one to follow him. Lawn admitted to being a lawmaker during the incident but later stated his actions were "completely unacceptable" in a public apology. Officers reported signs of intoxication, including glassy eyes and slurred speech, and noted that Lawn failed to complete field sobriety tests.

He refused a breathalyzer and did not provide a usable urine sample. House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano expressed disappointment and highlighted the serious risks associated with impaired driving. The incident has drawn calls for Lawn's resignation from the MassGOP, which criticized him for trying to avoid consequences due to his position. Lawn has served in the Massachusetts Legislature for over a decade, representing Newton, Watertown, and Waltham.