North Dakota state lawmaker apologizes for homophobic, xenophobic comments toward officer

A North Dakota state legislator is apologizing for homophobic and xenophobic comments he made toward an officer during a DUI stop earlier this month. 

State Rep. Nico Rios (R) allegedly made the comments after he was pulled over Dec. 15 for not staying in his lane. Rios was arrested and charged with DUI and refusing to submit to a chemical test and having an open alcoholic container in a vehicle, according to a police report.

The Associated Press reported both charges are misdemeanors under North Dakota law, and Rios is scheduled to attend a pretrial hearing Feb. 5. 

During the stop, Rios made homophobic, anti-migrant comments toward an officer and was “verbally abusive” for the “entire duration of the incident,” the police report states. 

Rios said in a statement following the incident that the two officers who stopped him were just doing their jobs and his words were “absolutely unacceptable.” 

“I owe it to myself, my district, and everyone and I vow to make sure this never happens again,” he said. “Moving forward after this night I feel like I have to emphasize my complete and total commitment to supporting Law Enforcement. I messed up big time and I am truly sorry.” 

CNN reported Rios called one of the officers a homophobic slur and brought up an officer’s nationality. After the officer told him that he was from England, Rios said England had been “taken over” by migrants.

“You’re arresting me for driving home while people come into your country and rape your women? And I’m the bad guy?” Rios said.

He also reportedly told the officers that he would call the North Dakota attorney general about the situation and that they would “regret picking” on him.

— Updated Dec. 27 at 1:26 p.m.