Attorney general asked to handle DUI case against ex-GOP chairman

The state attorney general has been asked to handle a drunk driving case against former California GOP Chairman Michael J. Schroeder, who was pulled over by a CHP officer who saw his black Porsche swerving on the 55 Freeway in Orange County.

Schroeder, a powerful figure in Orange County politics, was arrested earlier this month, authorities said. His wife is chief of staff for the Orange County district attorney’s office.

Schroeder, 56, was pulled over at 3:20 a.m. on Nov. 1 after an officer observed a black 2004 Porsche that failed to stay in its lane on the 55 Freeway, said CHP Officer Devon Boatman.

An officer observed “objective signs and symptoms” of alcohol impairment, according to a report, Boatman said. In the officer’s opinion, Boatman said, Schroeder failed to pass field sobriety tests and was placed under arrest.

Schroeder, who lives in Corona del Mar, was taken to a CHP station, given a blood test, cited and then released, Boatman said. His car was towed.

Farrah Emami, a spokeswoman for the Orange County district attorney’s office, confirmed that Schroeder was arrested and said the case has been referred to the state attorney general.

Schroeder was chairman of the state Republican Party and has been an influential political advisor over the years. He was an advisor to former Orange County Sheriff Mike Carona, who is now serving a federal prison sentence for witness tampering.

Schroeder’s attorney did not respond to a request for comment.

This story was reported by Times Staff Writer Nicole Santa Cruz.