A Kentucky sheriff is facing termination after his third DUI arrest in less than two years, prompting a swift and decisive ultimatum from Gov. Andy Beshear.
Robertson County Sheriff Terry Gray, 48, was arrested late Tuesday night after a dramatic pursuit reaching speeds up to 110 mph, during which Gray allegedly flashed his official police lights and blared the siren on his vehicle.
Reckless Chase Ends in Arrest
According to multiple reports, Gray was pulled over after nearly colliding with Mason County Sheriff Ryan Swolsky. Swolsky’s citation alleges that during the subsequent pursuit, Gray’s reckless driving involved crossing the center median multiple times and nearly flipping his car twice.
READ: Kentucky Child Killer Ronald Exantus Arrested In Florida Living Seconds From Elementary School
When Gray was finally stopped, Swolsky immediately smelled alcohol. The embattled sheriff, who was in his uniform at the time, allegedly told the arresting officer he was “not that drunk.” An arrest citation further alleges a miniature bottle of Fireball whisky was found on the passenger seat. Gray claimed he was pursuing another vehicle that he had “lost” during the chase.
Governor’s Ultimatum: Resign or Be Fired
This week’s incident marks Gray’s third drunk driving arrest since 2023, though he previously avoided jail time in both earlier cases.
The repeated misconduct prompted a forceful response from the Governor’s office. Gov. Beshear’s general counsel, S. Travis Mayo, sent a letter to Sheriff Gray demanding his resignation within five business days or face immediate termination.
The letter stressed the seriousness of the situation, stating, “We value the sanctity of law enforcement and the duty to uphold the law and serve and protect the communities that put their trust in their peace officers.”
READ: Kentucky Child Killer’s Short Walk: Florida Cuffs Ronald Exantus Days After Prison Release
Fellow Law Enforcement Calls for Resignation
Gray’s arrest has led to strong condemnation from his peers, including Sheriff Swolsky, who personally made the arrest.
“At the end of the day, he needs to resign because he tarnished the badge,” Swolsky told local media. “I think I speak on behalf of law enforcement across this state. We police our own. His behavior is not acceptable.”
Gray is currently being held at the Mason County Detention Center on a $500,000 bond, facing charges including operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, reckless driving, first-degree wanton endangerment, and first-degree official misconduct. He is scheduled to appear in court on October 13.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
