Lawyer says Sheriff Smith will plead guilty to OVI

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Columbiana County sheriff David Smith

LISBON — Columbiana County Sheriff David Smith is to plead guilty to a charge of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. His lawyer, Bradley J. Koffel, said today that a hearing is set for 11 a.m. April 18 in Cambridge Municipal Court in Guersey County.

Koffel said Smith may not have to serve three days in jail because first-time offenders often receive a suspended jail sentence. Smith may have to attend a 72-hour alcohol awareness program.

Smith was stopped by an Ohio State Highway Patrol trooper about 9:30 p.m. Oct. 11 on Interstate 70. A urine test showed he had a .222 percent alcohol content, slightly more than twice the legal limit of intoxication.

Sheriffs cannot run for office if they have been convicted of a first-degree misdemeanor. Smith, a Republican, withdrew from the race. Koffel said after that, there was “no compelling reason” to contest the charges.