News Summary
Elizabeth Barnhardt, a member of the Lexington-Richland 5 School Board, was arrested for DUI. Her blood alcohol level was reported at less than 0.1, marking this as her first offense. Barnhardt has chosen to contest the charges with her attorney’s assistance. The incident raises concerns about accountability in public office, impacting her role in the educational district. The case is currently under investigation by the South Carolina Highway Patrol.
Lexington, South Carolina – Elizabeth Barnhardt, a member of the Lexington-Richland 5 School Board, was arrested on charges of driving under the influence (DUI) on Monday, May 5, 2025. Barnhardt’s blood alcohol level was reported to be less than 0.1, which constitutes a first offense in South Carolina.
According to booking documents from the Lexington County Detention Center, Barnhardt was taken into custody by the South Carolina Highway Patrol at approximately 4:51 a.m. However, as of Tuesday afternoon, an official arrest report was not available for public release. The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department has opted not to comment further on the details surrounding the arrest.
Barnhardt, who currently serves in her first term on the school board, was elected in November 2022. She represents the Lexington County area within the school district, which oversees education in the Chapin-Irmo region. Barnhardt resides in Irmo with her husband and their three children, all of whom are enrolled in schools within District Five.
Her current term on the school board is scheduled to conclude in 2026. Following her arrest, Barnhardt has directed inquiries to her attorney, Stephen Hucks. Hucks has indicated that Barnhardt intends to contest the DUI charges and is prepared to present a defense in court.
The incident has raised concerns given Barnhardt’s prominent role in overseeing educational matters in the local community. As a member of the school board, her responsibilities include making decisions that significantly impact the educational landscape for families and students in the area.
The Lexington-Richland 5 School District, which Barnhardt represents, is known for its focus on providing quality education and comprehensive support to its students. The school board plays a critical role in determining policy and funding for schools in the district. Barnhardt’s situation has caused some community members to take note, given the importance of accountability and responsible behavior in public service roles.
While Barnhardt’s arrest is her first, the implications could extend beyond the legal matters at hand, especially regarding public perception and trust in local governance. As the legal process unfolds, there will likely be increased scrutiny on her actions and decisions as a board member.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol continues to handle the case as it progresses through the legal system. It remains to be seen how the situation will affect Barnhardt’s position on the school board or her ability to serve the community effectively.
In summary, Elizabeth Barnhardt’s arrest for DUI marks a significant event in her term as a school board member, affecting both her personal life and public responsibilities. The outcome of the legal proceedings and any subsequent decisions by the school board will be crucial in determining her future role within the district.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier
- Wikipedia: Driving Under the Influence
- WIS TV
- Google Search: DUI South Carolina
- Cola Daily
- Google Scholar: South Carolina DUI laws
- WIS TV
- Encyclopedia Britannica: DUI Law
- Cola Daily
- Google News: DUI enforcement South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
