Peoria Heights Mayor Arrested on DUI Charges

Attorney says mayor will fight the allegations in court

Apr. 18, 2026 at 11:34pm

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An extreme close-up of a car key and ignition switch, the metal and plastic surfaces reflecting the harsh light of the camera flash, conceptually representing the DUI charges against the mayor.A mayor's arrest on DUI charges raises concerns about accountability in local government.Peoria Today

Peoria Heights Mayor Matt Wigginton was arrested early Friday morning on charges of driving under the influence after police found him asleep in his vehicle in a downtown parking deck. The 42-year-old mayor was booked at 8:10 a.m. and has retained legal counsel to fight the allegations.

Why it matters

As a public official, the mayor's arrest on DUI charges raises concerns about accountability and public trust in local government. Impaired driving incidents involving elected leaders can undermine confidence in their ability to serve their constituents effectively.

The details

According to police reports, officers discovered Mayor Wigginton asleep in his vehicle in a downtown Peoria parking deck around 6 a.m. on Friday. He was subsequently arrested and booked on DUI charges at 8:10 a.m. The mayor has retained an attorney who stated that Wigginton plans to fight the allegations in court.

  • Mayor Wigginton was found asleep in his vehicle around 6 a.m. on Friday, April 18, 2026.
  • He was arrested and booked on DUI charges at 8:10 a.m. on Friday, April 18, 2026.

The players

Matt Wigginton

The 42-year-old mayor of Peoria Heights, Illinois, who was arrested on DUI charges after being found asleep in his vehicle in a downtown parking deck.

Peoria Police

The law enforcement agency that arrested Mayor Wigginton and charged him with driving under the influence.

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What they’re saying

“Given that the matter is still ongoing, I think it's best to refer (comment) to my attorney,”

— Matt Wigginton, Mayor of Peoria Heights

What’s next

The judge will determine whether to allow Mayor Wigginton to be released on bail at a hearing scheduled for next Tuesday.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of elected officials being held to the same standards as the public when it comes to impaired driving. The mayor's case will be closely watched to see if he is able to maintain public trust and continue serving in his role.