A Democratic mayor in New Jersey was arrested on St. Patrick’s Day for driving under the influence while her 2-year-old son was in the car, according to reports.

Citing charging documents, WPVI reported Lumberton Mayor Gina LaPlaca, 45, was charged with DUI, as well as endangering the welfare of a child, after she drove her toddler home from daycare on Monday.

The media outlet said a witness recorded a driver, later identified as LaPlaca, “unable to stay in their lane and nearly hitting a utility pole” as her child sat in a car seat in the back of a BMW.

WPVI said authorities tracked down the car to LaPlaca’s home, where she allegedly told officers “she had been drinking, and had recently picked up her 2-year-old from daycare.”

LaPlaca’s husband, Jason Carty, took to Facebook to defend his wife. He also said she is struggling with addiction.

“Millions of Americans struggle with addiction and never get help. Gina LaPlaca is someone who has struggled, and is now getting the help she needs,” Carty, who is a political advocate, wrote. “I ask that everyone keep her in their thoughts as she moves forward on her road to recovery.

“Please ignore the exaggerated political hyperbole and keep in mind her passion for helping others. This should not erase all the things she has accomplished for our community.”

Carty went on to describe LaPlaca as “a loving and caring mother and step mom to our son and her step son.” He also urged the public not to berate his wife on social media.

“Our oldest is a teenager and can see the unkind things being said online,” Carty said.

“I ask simply that you respect our privacy, be better humans and please show some compassion, thank you.”

The arrest comes after LaPlaca was captured on video being escorted out of a town meeting earlier this month for yelling and swearing at a woman.

As for the DUI charge, LaPlaca was reportedly released with a summons and is set to appear in court in April.

Have a news tip? Contact Jessica Botelho at jabotelho@sbgtv.com or at x.com/J_Botelho_TND.