PROSECUTOR FACES DRUG CHARGE

LOUISVILLE (AP)-- Jefferson County's chief traffic-court prosecutor has been
cited for marijuana possession at the Churchill Downs infield during the
Kentucky Derby.

An undercover narcotics officer allegedly spotted John A. Wilmes smoking
marijuana Saturday. The charge is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to
12 months in jail, a $500 fine or both. Most first offenders are referred to
drug-education classes instead, court officials said.

In being cited rather than arrested, Wilmes was treated like others in the
infield on Derby Day. Jefferson County police Capt. Buddy Dumeyer said
Saturday that officers had written about 30 citations, more than half of
which were for marijuana possession. A person who is cited isn't taken to
jail or booked but is allowed to appear later in court to answer to the charge.

County Attorney Mike Conliffe also suspended Wilmes for 30 days. Although
Conliffe said Wilmes has an "impeccable" service record, he said suspension
was "best for everyone involved."

Conliffe didn't say whether Wilmes will be retained after his case is
resolved. He said Wilmes prosecutes drunken-driving and other traffic cases,
but not drug cases such as the one with which he is being charged.

Checked-by: Melodi Cornett