FULTON COUNTY, GA (CBS ATLANTA) -
TJ Copeland, a candidate in the Democratic primary run-off for a state House seat, is fighting a misdemeanor charge of driving under the influence.
The charge stems from a traffic stop in Atlanta in November 2010 in which police say Copeland was driving the wrong way on a one-way street. According to arrest records, police smelled a strong odor of alcohol coming from the vehicle. Copeland refused a breath test and was arrested.
Copeland was also charged with three other misdemeanors; driving the wrong way on a one-way street; driving with a suspended or revoked license; and driving with a revoked, canceled or suspended registration.
In July, a CBS Atlanta investigation found Linda Pritchett, another candidate for the same office has a criminal history which includes grand larceny, petty larceny and several traffic violations.
When questioned about his opponent's criminal record on July 25, Copeland said, "I think we need to take a wider approach at looking at elected officials and how they conduct themselves."
CBS Atlanta contacted Copeland and his attorney about the charges but did not receive a call back.
Copeland, a teacher, is scheduled to appear for a hearing on the charges in Fulton County State Court later this month.
Copeland will face Ronnie Mabra in the Aug. 21 run-off election for the District 63 state House seat. District 63 includes parts of Fulton, Clayton and Fayette counties.
Pritchett received the least amount of votes in the July 31 primary election.
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