Chicago police arrested Luis Zepeda, the first deputy commissioner of the Department of Streets and Sanitation, on drunk driving charges early Sunday morning. The incident happened outside the Park District’s South Shore Cultural Center in the 7100 block of South Exchange Avenue around 5:30 a.m., the Chicago Tribune reported.
Authorities cited Zepeda with two misdemeanor counts of driving under the influence and one misdemeanor count of obstructing traffic. Police released him later that day. Details on his next court date remain unclear.
Zepeda drove a personal vehicle at the time and was not on official city business. He could not be reached for comment.
City Hall referred questions about any discipline to the Department of Streets and Sanitation. The department confirmed an internal review but shared no further details. Spokesperson Ryan Gage stated, “We are aware of an incident that occurred last weekend involving a DSS staff member. The matter is being addressed internally and by CPD, and we have no further comment at this time.”
Zepeda has served the city for nearly 20 years. He earns about $211,000 a year as the second-in-command of the department responsible for garbage collection, snow plowing, and road cleanup. He rose to his current role in 2021 after working as an assistant general superintendent and ward superintendent.
This arrest raises questions about accountability in Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration. The case continues under police and internal investigation.
