News Summary
Elizabeth Barnhardt, a member of the Lexington-Richland 5 school board, was arrested for driving under the influence. She faces a first-offense DUI charge. Barnhardt plans to contest the charges with her attorney’s support. The arrest has raised concerns about the implications for her school board position. Further developments are anticipated as the legal process unfolds in this publicized case.
Lexington-Richland 5 School Board Member Arrested
Lexington, South Carolina – Elizabeth Barnhardt, a member of the Lexington-Richland 5 school board, was arrested on Monday and charged with driving under the influence (DUI). Barnhardt was booked at the Lexington County Detention Center at 4:51 a.m. on May 5, 2025, and faces a first-offense DUI charge with a reported blood alcohol level of less than 0.1.
The arrest was made by the South Carolina Highway Patrol, although as of Tuesday afternoon, specific details from the arrest report had not been made available. In light of the situation, Barnhardt has chosen to refer all inquiries to her attorney, Stephen Hucks, who indicated that his client plans to contest the charges in court. Hucks expressed confidence in Barnhardt’s defense.
Background on Elizabeth Barnhardt
Barnhardt is currently serving her first term on the school board after being elected in November 2022. She oversees educational affairs in the Chapin-Irmo area, which encompasses her local community. At 32 years old, Barnhardt resides in Irmo with her husband and three children, who are all enrolled in schools within District Five. Her current term is scheduled to conclude in 2026.
Amanda Taylor, a spokesperson for the Lexington-Richland 5 School District, has declined to comment on the arrest, emphasizing the need for the legal process to unfold. The implications of this incident on Barnhardt’s position on the school board remain uncertain as the situation develops.
Legal Context of DUI Charges
A DUI charge in South Carolina is a significant offense, particularly for individuals in public service roles. First-offense DUIs may carry penalties including fines, community service, and potential mandatory alcohol education programs, depending on the circumstances surrounding the arrest. The outcome of Barnhardt’s case may set a precedent for how similar incidents are perceived within the community and could influence public opinion regarding her role on the school board.
As the legal process continues, the community of Lexington and the families within District Five await further developments in this legal matter. This incident has drawn attention not only due to Barnhardt’s public position but also in light of ongoing discussions surrounding the responsibilities of public officials and their accountability to the constituents they serve.
The incident highlights the significance of maintaining public trust, especially for individuals who help shape educational policy and community standards. Further updates are expected as Barnhardt pursues her legal options against the DUI charge.
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Additional Resources
- The Post and Courier
- Kentucky.com
- Davidson Local
- Wikipedia: Driving Under the Influence
- WACH
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Driving Under the Influence
