Monday, August 4, 2008

Press Release from the Office of the State of Tennessee Office of District Attorney General, Twenty Second Judicial District:

From the Office of District Attorney General Mike Bottoms:

   On August 1, 2008, Assistant District Attorney John Castleman pled guilty to DUI in Lawrence County General Sessions Court.

   On May 7, 2008, Castleman was involved in a one-car accident in Lawrence County. Due to his employment, District Attorney Mike Bottoms requested a District Attorney Pro Tem be appointed to investigate the matter. District Attorney General Ray Whitley from Sumner County was appointed to investigate, and if necessary, prosecute the case.

   The investigation revealed that there was no alcohol involved, but Castleman had taken too much of a medically prescribed antidepressant.

   Castleman stated, “I apologize to the public, my family and my friends for any embarrassment my actions may have caused. I am thankful every day that no one else was involved or hurt because of my actions.”

   He was sentenced to forty-eight hours jail time, a fine of $350 and court costs. His license was suspended for one year. In addition, being his first offense he is eligible to apply for a driver license for employment. Due to the nature of his employment and his personal safety, Castleman was allowed to serve his time in a county jail outside the 22nd Judicial District.

   District Attorney Pro Tem Ray Whitley stated, “Our laws apply equally to everyone, regardless of who is involved. Mr. Castleman has stepped up and taken responsibility for his actions by pleading guilty and he has been given the same consequences anyone else would have received.”

   District Attorney Mike Bottoms stated, “While I am disappointed in John’s actions, I have made a decision to keep him on as an Assistant District Attorney.  His many pluses far outweigh this negative. It is important for the public to know that Castleman was treated like any other member of the public. The law applies to all citizens equally.”

   NOTE:  Authorities indicated Monday that Castleman had served his jail term during the past weekend.

 

.

.