San Joaquin County Board of Supervisor member Tom Patti was not under the influence when he was involved in a low-speed accident in July 2018 on Interstate 5.

Patti — who represents Lathrop, parts of Stockton, and Manteca north of Yosemite Avenue — was facing DUI charges stemming from his involvement in the  non-injury accident.

After a lengthy review by the State of California, it was confirmed that Patti had a medical emergency. It was determined the charge of driving under the influence of alcohol charges were not warranted and no further action would be taken. No traces of alcohol or opioids were found to be present in his blood.

 “I am thankful for the assistance and quick action by our first responders and appreciative of the work they do to keep our roadways and communities safe every day,” Patti said Thursday. “I'm most grateful that nobody was injured and this matter has been resolved in full consideration of the circumstances."

Patti, who is running  for Congress next month to represent Manteca and Stockton, was driving a 2015 Chevy Tahoe that collided with a 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme that struck a 2011 Toyota Prius based on CHP reports.

The CHP reported that Patti’s vehicle rear-ended the car in front of him that sent it into the first vehicle in line in a later afternoon accident on Interstate 5t near Lathrop Road.

During the course of the CHP investigation the traffic officer reported observing signs and symptoms of intoxification from Patti. It was determined Patti was under the influence and was subsequently booked into the San Joaquin County Jail for DUI. Patti was released from custody several hours late.

Patti issued a statement at the time taking responsibility for his actions noting that he had no alcohol in his system and believed the incident was a reaction to some prescriptions he has been taking after having spine surgery. 

“I provided a roadside alcohol test that showed I had zero alcohol in my system.  I also want to make clear that illegal drugs were not involved,” Patti wrote.  “I would like to apologize with all my heart to my family, friends and constituents.  I will do everything in my power to ensure this never happens again.  I would like to personally thank the representatives of the California Highway Patrol and the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office for their professionalism.”