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Senator Virgil Smith Remains In Police Custody

State Senator Virgil Smith is expected to be a no-show when the Senate gavels into session Tuesday.

He remains in police custody following a weekend shooting incident outside his home in Detroit.  

We have more from The Michigan Public Radio Network’s Rick Pluta.

Smith is suspected of firing 10 gunshots into his ex-wife’s car. The Wayne County prosecutor is continuing the investigation before making a decision on charging Smith, but he could face a felony charge of aggravated assault, as well as a misdemeanor destruction of property charge. If convicted of a felony, Smith would likely be forced to leave his Senate seat. He was elected to a second term last year. He is also the son of a Wayne County judge.

Rick Pluta is Senior Capitol Correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.
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