Rockies’ Todd Helton is arrested on suspicion of drunk driving

Colorado Rockies first baseman Todd Helton was arrested Wednesday in Thornton, Colo., on suspicion of drunk driving and careless driving.

“Last evening, I exercised poor judgment and was charged with drinking and driving after driving to a gas station near my house,” Helton said in a statement released through the team. “I am very sorry and embarrassed by my actions. I hold myself to a high standard and take my responsibility as a public figure very seriously. My entire career I have worked to set a positive example for my family and in our community and I fell far short of this standard.

“I sincerely ask my family, the Colorado Rockies organization, Major League Baseball and the community to accept my apology. I make no excuses and accept full responsibility for my actions. I humbly ask your forgiveness.”

Police said that Helton’s blood-alcohol content was over the legal limit, but they haven’t released the number.

“We were extremely disappointed to learn that Todd was arrested. This type of behavior is taken very seriously by our organization,” the Rockies said in a statement. “We know that he clearly understands the seriousness of his poor decision, the harm that could have been inflicted on others and the embarrassment his mistake has caused to himself, his family, the Colorado Rockies organization and to Major League Baseball.

“Todd is taking full accountability for his actions with his family, his fans and the organization. The man we have grown to know has strong values that are grounded in his family and hard work. Todd clearly understands the severity of the situation.”

Helton holds almost all of the Rockies’ career batting records, including most hits (2,420), home runs (354) and RBIs (1,345).

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