Vito J. Fossella

Guide Note

Vito J. Fossella is a Republican congressman from New York City elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1997.

Fossella grew up in a Democratic family but switched parties in 1990 after finding himself voting for more Republicans.

In 1994, Fossella was elected to the New York City Council.

On May 1, 2008, Fossella was arrested in Alexandria, Virginia for driving while intoxicated.

Fast Facts

1. Born: March 9, 1965
2. Birthplace: Staten Island, New York
3. Spouse: Mary Patricia Rowann
4. Of Italian and Irish descent
5. His grandfather, James A. O'Leary, once represented Staten Island in Congress

On May 1, 2008, Fossella was arrested for driving while intoxicated in Virginia and appeared for an advisement hearing on May 12 in an Alexandria General District Court.

Although it's not known what Fossella's blood alcohol level was, it was apparently .08 (the legal limit in Virginia) or higher.

"Last night I made an error in judgment. As a parent, I know that taking even one drink of alcohol before getting behind the wheel of a car is wrong. I apologize to my family and the constituents of the 13th Congressional District for embarrassing them, as well as myself."