The Bremen Board of Education voted to accept Bremen Fourth and Fifth Grade Academy Principal April Garner’s request for family leave under the Family Medical Act at a called meeting on Tuesday. On Saturday, Garner was arrested for driving under the influence, according to the Georgia State Patrol. The arrest came after she allegedly crashed into a Bremen Police car. The officer had pulled her over after someone reported a reckless driver in the area.

At around 5:45 p.m., the Bremen Police Department received a “look-out” call for a reckless driver in a silver Camry. Police spotted the vehicle, allegedly driven by Garner, traveling near Waddell Street in Bremen, and began to follow it.

“The police discovered her driving off Waddell Street, and she turned north into the Hightower Funeral Home. She attempted to back out and backed into a police vehicle, which pulled up behind her,” explained Georgia State Patrolman Chaffin Wade, who responded to the scene.

Wade says he conducted a blood alcohol test on Garner, who he cited for a DUI and took to the Haralson County Jail in Buchanan. He said the accident did not involve a chase or any uncooperativeness on the part of Garner.

Meanwhile, Garner says she is “deeply sorry that the accident happened” and that she’s been in treatment for her behavior that led to the incident since she was released on bond.

“I am sorry, and I am asking for the prayers and support of the community,” she sobbed. “I never intentionally set out to harm anyone. I truly care about the community and my students.”

In the meantime, Bremen City Schools approved to expand Bremen Middle School Principal Krista Smith’s responsibilities to include Garner’s duties at the Fourth and Fifth Grade Academy for the remainder of the school year.

“We’re looking out for the best interest of students,” Bremen City Schools Superintendent Stanley McCain added.

Wade said there were no injuries sustained by anyone as a result of the accident.

Garner’s blood alcohol test sample is currently being processed at the Georgia Bureau of Investigation lab to determine her blood alcohol level at the scene of the accident.