Conway, Arkansas – In a recent incident that has caught the attention of the Conway community, Linda Hargis, a seasoned member of the Conway School Board, was arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Cabot, Arkansas. The arrest occurred on the night of August 25th, following what was initially a routine traffic stop for an improper lane change.
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The incident unfolded when Cabot Police Officer Korey Marcks observed a black Ford F-150, driven by Hargis, making erratic movements on West Main Street. According to Officer Marcks, the vehicle was seen traveling between two lanes, which prompted further scrutiny. The situation escalated when, after turning left onto West Locust Street, the officer decided to activate his emergency lights and conduct a stop to address the traffic violation.
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Upon approaching the vehicle, Officer Marcks noted that Hargis, 76, appeared to be the sole occupant. During the initial interaction, he reported observing signs that suggested impairment, including bloodshot, watery eyes and a noticeable odor of alcohol emanating from inside the vehicle. When questioned, Hargis admitted to having consumed two beers earlier that evening.
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To assess her condition further, Officer Marcks administered several field sobriety tests, all of which Hargis failed. A subsequent breathalyzer test revealed her blood alcohol content (BAC) to be 0.14%, nearly twice the legal limit in Arkansas, which is set at 0.08%. A repeat test at the Cabot Police Department confirmed these findings with a consistent BAC of 0.13%.
Following the tests, it was determined that Hargis was unfit to operate a motor vehicle and she was officially arrested and charged with DUI, along with being cited for the lane change violation. At the police station, her driver’s license was confiscated, and she was issued a temporary license pending further legal proceedings.
Despite the ongoing investigation, which Officer Marcks indicated he could not discuss in detail, Hargis has maintained a stance of not guilty to all charges against her. She is scheduled for a bench trial on December 4th. Remarkably, amidst this personal and legal turmoil, Hargis continued her duties on the school board, attending a meeting on September 16th where the incident was notably not addressed.
This arrest raises questions about the responsibilities and expectations placed on public figures and their impact on community trust and governance. As the legal process unfolds, the community and the school board may need to address the implications of this incident in terms of leadership and accountability, particularly in settings that involve the welfare and education of children.
