Dakota Co. deputy arrested for suspected DWI

A surprising new development unfolded Thursday in the case against a Dakota County Sheriff's deputy who was arrested over the weekend for allegedly driving while intoxicated.

During the new investigation, officials have found that Deputy Joshua Williams did not receive full punishment for his role in a fatal traffic accident that killed motorcyclist Bill Wallace in 2007.

On Saturday, Williams was arrested for DWI in Empire Township. He was initially stopped after he was clocked traveling over 10 miles over the posted speed limit. He was arrested on Country Road 46, a short distance away from the location of the fatal accident.

Authorities said Williams failed a field sobriety test, and was booked into the Dakota County Jail. He was released a few hours later.

"He’s got a second chance. A lot of people don't get that and it's frightening. My brother is dying in vain," said the victim’s stepbrother Joe Geror.

In 2007, Williams was convicted of careless driving. The Department of Public Safety told 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS that they were never notified about the careless driving conviction and Williams license was never suspended, which was a mandate of his sentence.

After the careless driving conviction handed down to him on May 13, 2008, he was prohibited from driving county vehicles and re-assigned to court security as a bailiff.

However, state records show Williams’ license was reinstated on Oct. 7, 2008, a mere five months after his conviction.

The Wallace family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Dakota County. The attorney for Williams declined comment.

Dakota County Chief Deputy Dave Bellows said Williams has been placed on paid leave. Williams has worked for the county since 2000.