Sen. Cooper hit with DUI charges – Blood-alcohol level not released

The Tennessee Department of Safety has charged state Sen. Jerry Cooper with driving under the influence and speeding.

The warrant was issued Tuesday after the Tennessee Highway Patrol conducted an investigation of the Feb. 7 crash on Interstate 24.

Initial reports were that alcohol was not involved. However, an eyewitness told a reporter he saw a bottle of Jack Daniels by Cooper?s SUV. Cooper had attended three legislative receptions prior to the 9 p.m. accident.

While charging Cooper with DUI, the Department of Safety has yet to release Cooper?s blood-alcohol level. Department of Safety spokesman Mike Browning said arrest warrant information doesn?t become public record until the warrant is served.

It is also not known how fast Cooper was alleged to be traveling. The speed limit where Cooper wrecked is 70 mph.

According to the Department of Safety, Cooper will be allowed to surrender himself and be served with the warrant when ?he is physically able.?

The Department of Safety has turned over the findings of its investigation to Rutherford County District Attorney William Whitesell. His office will be prosecuting the case.

In addition to DUI charges, Cooper was scheduled to answer to federal charges of bank fraud, mail fraud and conspiracy to commit bank and mail fraud on March 5 in Chattanooga. His attorney, Jerry Summers, asked for a continuance in the case due to Cooper?s wreck injuries.

The fact Cooper was out on bond at the time of his DUI charge could impact his ability to remain free on bond. While the exact conditions of Cooper?s bond are not known, people are generally expected to avoid any further legal trouble during their release.

?We hope it will not affect his pre-trial release,? said Cooper?s attorney Jerry Summers. ?We wish it hadn?t happened. It?s just another unfortunate circumstance with what has happened to Senator Cooper.?