Ana Bailao pleads guilty to drunk driving charges

TORONTO – City Councillor Ana Bailao pleaded guilty to having over 80 mgs of alcohol in her blood, she said at an impromptu press conference Monday.

Bailao was arrested in October at approximately 2 a.m. in the morning near Harbord Street and Bathurst Street after the Mayor’s Ball for the Arts.

At the time Bailao called the incident “regrettable” but initially pleaded not guilty to impaired driving charges.

But today, Bailao announced she appeared in court and pleaded guilty to charges of having over 80 mgs of alcohol in her blood.

“I made a bad choice and in my heart I’ve always known that,” Bailao said. “I do not and have never condoned drinking and driving.”

She received a 12 month driving prohibition and a fine of $1000 and her impaired driving charges were dropped.

“For the hurt and offence I caused others, I again sincerely apologize. The only thing I ask is for people to learn by my example,” Bailao said. “This is a bad decision, I take full responsibility.”

Bailao has no plans to resign and says she will “absolutely” run in the next municipal election.

Mayor Rob Ford issued a written statement late Monday afternoon expressing his support for Bailao.

“Councillor Ana Bailao did something wrong and she’s taken full responsibility for her actions,” the statement reads. “I have faith in the justice system and the Court’s decision regarding the appropriate consequences. Ana is a good local Councillor, she works hard and represents her residents well at City Hall. I look forward to continuing to work with her on Council.”