NBC's Leon Harris Issues Statement After DUI Arrest

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD — News4 anchor Leon Harris said he plans to take some time away following an arrest. He has been charged with DUI and DWI, according to the NBC affiliate in Washington, D.C.

"I have decided to take some time away to deal with an issue that took me a long time to accept," he said in a statement to News4. "I am thankful to everyone for their support and understanding. I’m sorry to those I have hurt or let down. I hope to return as a healthier person."

Harris was arrested after he rear-ended another car on Bradley Boulevard near River Road Jan. 29, Montgomery County police told WTOP.

The anchor was charged with six misdemeanor crimes: driving under the influence, attempting to elude police, driving while impaired by alcohol, attempting to drive while impaired and two charges of failing to stay on the scene of an accident.

Court records show this is the second time Harris has been charged with DUI in Montgomery County, WTOP said.

Authorities said Harris failed a sobriety test, and a breathalyzer test found his blood-alcohol level was twice the legal limit of 0.08 percent, NBC Washington reported.

He is going to remain off the air while his investigation is underway, News4 said.

Related: News4 Anchor Leon Harris Arrested, Charged With DUI