Mississippi state senator arrested near Foley on DUI charge

This booking photo provided by the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office shows Mississippi state Sen. Michael McLendon, Monday, June 5, 2023. (Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office via AP)

A Mississippi state senator has been arrested near the Alabama Gulf Coast for driving under the influence on a highway, authorities announced.

Mississippi State Sen. Michael McLendon, a Republican from DeSoto County, was arrested near Foley on June 5. Dispatchers received a call around 10 a.m. about a reckless driver heading southbound on Highway 98, WMC-TV in Memphis, Tennessee, reported.

Deputies tested McLendon at the scene and arrested him on a driving under the influence charge. His charge — DUI combined with substance — means he may have been under the influence of both alcohol and another substance, according to the sheriff’s office. Police have not said what the other substance is or whether it is illegal.

He was later released on a $2,500 bond. He has a court appearance scheduled for Oct. 25.

McLendon did not immediately respond to a call and voicemail requesting a comment. He has represented his north Mississippi district since 2020.

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