Commander of Gladstone MSP post heads to court next week

SAULT STE. MARIE, MI--   A preliminary hearing on a drunken driving charge is set for the commander of the Gladstone Michigan State Police Post. 

Lt. William Smith, 43, was involved in a single-vehicle accident in Chippewa County July 7.  He was arrested for operating while intoxicated punishable by up to 93 days in jail and a $500 fine. 

Because he and Smith once worked together, Chippewa County Prosecutor Brian Peppler asked Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette to appoint an outside prosecutor for the case.  Cheboygan County Prosecutor Daryl Vizina has been assigned.

Smith was named commander of the Gladstone Post in April. 

His preliminary exam is set for August 29.