Former city councilor, Rochester Arts and Culture chair charged with DUI

Ashley Desrocher (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - A former City Councilor and current Rochester Arts and Culture Commission chair was charged with driving under the influence following her arrest on Tuesday in Rochester.
Ashley Desrocher, 36, was placed under arrest around 1:35 a.m. and charged with one count of impairment under RSA 265-A:2I(A), which in New Hampshire "pertains to the offense of driving under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs, or with an impaired ability to operate a vehicle due to these substances."
Desrocher served one two-year term as a city councilor representing Ward 4, Seat A following her victory in the November 2021 municipal elections.
During her term she became a flashpoint in the controversial trial of former city councilor Chris Rice, who was accused and later found guilty of harassment and retaliation during a May 12, 2022, trial by the Rochester City Council.
Rice was found guilty and removed from officer on charges of harassment against Desrocher and retaliation against Rochester Mayor Paul Callaghan.
Rice has countered that he was railroaded during a kangaroo court that was a travesty of justice.
Desrocher's role as chairperson of the Arts and Culture Commission expires on July 1, 2027.
Coincidentally, she and other members of the commission are tentatively scheduled to be in attendance at Tuesday's City Council meeting where certificates of achievement will be handed out to individuals and organizations that have made cultural contributions to the City of Rochester.
Meawnwhile, Rochester Police have not yet released any details on Desrocher's arrest or when she will be arraigned on the charges.
According to state statute, A DUI arrest is categorized as a Class B misdemeanor charge that carries a minimum $500 fine, and a license revocation of at least 9 months. Additionally, individuals may be required to complete an impaired driver intervention program and undergo random drug and alcohol testing.