The career trajectory of a Kansas state lawmaker changed drastically this week after he was arrested on serious charges while allegedly driving under the influence.
According to The Kansas City Star, Kansas state Rep. Carl Maughan, a Republican, was arrested by Topeka police on Monday "on suspicion of traffic violations and possession of a firearm while under the influence."
He was arrested and booked at the Shawnee County Jail in the early morning hours of Monday, booking documents indicated.
The Kansas Republican lawmaker represents the state's District 90 and has held office since January 2023.
Documents obtained by the outlet said Maughan was stopped by police after failing to use his turn signals and "improper driving on laned roadway."
The stop presumably led to the suspected DUI charge, along with the gun-related charge, though few details were available regarding the gun charge.
WIBW noted:
According to the Topeka Police Department, they observed Maughan’s traffic infractions which led to an investigation. At the end of the investigation, they arrested and booked the former representative into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.
House Speaker Dan Hawkins released a statement on the Republican lawmaker's arrest, thanking police for "working with Maughan" during the arrest.
"Anytime there’s an instance of anyone driving under the influence it’s concerning and something to be taken seriously," Hawkins said. "I’m thankful that no one was hurt."
Article updated: GOP Kansas Rep Carl Maughan. He bonded out of jail on $2,500. https://t.co/agxqxhRoMQ
— Shannon Watts (@shannonrwatts) March 6, 2024
In a late-breaking update regarding Maughan's arrest, WIBW reported that the state lawmaker announced his resignatio "from his role as Vice Chair of House Judiciary" following his arrest.
WIBW added:
A Spokesperson for the House Speaker has confirmed that Maughan stepped down from his Vice Chair position, but will remain on the committee. A new Vice Chair will be appointed.
The Kansas Reflector noted:
Maughan held a vice chair position on the House Judiciary Committee, but was replaced in this position Tuesday, hours after news of his arrest became widely publicized. He still holds a seat on the committee, as well as on the House Corrections and Juvenile Justice Committee and the House Financial Institutions and Pensions Committee, among others.
The outlet, along with several others, contacted his office for comment on the arrest and subsequent charges. As of this writing, no comment has been provided.
