Daycare stops allegedly drunk mom from driving

WEST NEWBURY, Mass. (WHDH) -- A school administrator was put on paid administrative leave following allegations of drunk driving.

Karen Brann, the director of special education for Newburyport Public Schools, was allegedly picking up her children from daycare at the time, but workers at the daycare stopped her.

Brann, 43, faces several charges including driving drunk and two counts of child endangerment. Police said while Brann was on her way to pick up her children from daycare she hit a few mailboxes.

Authorities said Brann did not stop and continued to her children’s daycare to pick up her 5 year old and 7 year old. When she arrived, her children got in her minivan and she turned the ignition with the intent to drive off with her children.

According to court papers, the daycare provider stepped in and stopped her from driving.

The daycare provider issued a statement saying, “...I feel that it's my responsibility to step in when a child could be in danger. I have known and loved this family for 3 years, and wish them the very best in getting the help that they need."

“I think it’s sad, I think it’s so sad,” said Karen Gray, who supports the daycare provider’s actions. “Thank god for that daycare provider.”

The court file says that when police arrested her she admitted to having one glass of wine earlier. Investigators said her eyes were glassy, her face was flush and she was slow to respond to questions. They added that her breath smelled of alcohol.

The daycare provider said Brann thanked her for what she did.