Colleagues Say Little About DUI Charge

Lance Liverman's colleagues on Princeton Township Committee have little to say about Liverman's charge for driving under the influence last week after refusing to take a Breathalyzer test following an accident in Hopewell Township. 

Only Chad Mayor Goerner could be reached on Monday. 

"The way that I see it is it's a personal matter that Lance has to go through," Goerner said. "I've always supported Lance and what's he's done for the community speaks for himself. He's a wonderful colleague on Township Committee." 

Phone messages left for Deputy Mayor Liz Lempert and Committee Member Sue Nemeth were not immediately returned. Township Committee Member Bernie Miller is traveling abroad. 

According to New Jersey State Police, Liverman was driving on Route 95 when he drifted out of his lane and sideswiped a tractor-trailer idling by the side of the road. No one was injured. 

He was charged with refusing a Breathalyzer test, DUI, reckless driving and making an unsafe lane change at 1:55 a.m. 

Liverman said he was returning home from dinner with friends in Philadelphia when he fell asleep at the wheel. He called the incident a "very, very unfortunate mishap" and said he was unaware that refusing to take the Breathalyzer test would result in charges for refusal and DUI. 

He said he plans to remain on Committee and continue his fall election campaign unless the incident affects his ability to serve Princeton or puts the town in a negative light. 

His case is expected to be heard in Hopewell Township Municipal Court.