ABQ city councilor resigns after DWI arrest

Here’s the statement, sent by Gerges Scott on Cook’s behalf:

“I am resigning my position as the District 7 City Councilor effective today. I am a man that believes in personal responsibility and accountability. It is because of these beliefs I feel it is best for the city and my community that I step down as City Councilor, I do not want to distract any attention from the needs or goals of the city.

It has been a privilege to serve the constituents of District Seven and work to the improvement and advancement of the City of Albuquerque, I am thankful to all the wonderful people that I have met along the way.

Serving the citizens of Albuquerque is truly an honor I will appreciate for the rest of my life. My priorities now will be with my family and friends as I move past this regrettable incident in my life.

Michael Cook.”

An Albuquerque police officer stopped Cook on the 2500 block of San Pedro NE, the records show, and booked him in to the Metropolitan Detention a short time later.

Cook was charged with DWI, first offense, failure to maintain a traffic lane, driving with no proof of registration and driving with no license plate, the records show.

According to jail records, Cook was released this morning on his own recognizance.

Cook, who represents District 7 on the council, announced earlier this week that he will seek reelection in October.

He works as a financial planner and formerly served on Albuquerque’s Police Oversight Commission.

The Journal has left a voicemail message for Cook this morning. He has not yet returned it.

Check back with ABQJournal.com for updates throughout the day, and pick up a copy of tomorrow’s paper for a complete report.