FRANKFORT (AP) — Authorities say a Kentucky lawmaker has been charged with driving under the influence after being stopped by a state police officer in Frankfort. Kentucky State Police Sgt. Michael Webb says Republican Sen. Brandon Smith, of Hazard, was stopped by the state trooper for speeding at about 9 p.m. EST Tuesday.
Webb said Wednesday that after making contact with Smith, the trooper suspected the senator had been drinking and arrested him on a DUI charge. Webb says the senator cooperated with the trooper but refused to take a Breathalyzer test. Webb says Smith also was cited for driving 20 mph over the speed limit.
Senate Republican spokeswoman Teresa Hill says Smith declined comment on the matter Wednesday.
Kentucky lawmakers convened their annual legislative session on Tuesday.