Boston Police report an off-duty officer crashed into another car at Columbia Road and Ceylon Street in Dorchester on New Year's Day, sending the two occupants of the other vehicle to the hospital - one with serious injuries.

In addition to a criminal charge of operating under the influence causing serious bodily injury, filed today, Officer Domenic Columbo was placed on leave - with pay. In a statement, Police Commissioner William Evans said:

My officers are expected to abide by the same laws they are sworn to uphold. No one is above the law, and those who break it will be held accountable. I am happy to hear that all those injured will recover, and I take this opportunity to remind everyone not to drink and drive

Columbo has been a Boston officer for six years and has not had any previous disciplinary issues, police say.

Innocent, etc.