LEOLA, S.D. – A South Dakota state senator has been cited for driving under the influence, marking the third criminal case involving a state lawmaker to emerge in the past four months.
McPherson County authorities say Senator Mark Lapka of Leola was cited for suspected DUI sometime between Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning. Officials say charges have not yet been formally filed as the investigation continues.
State’s Attorney Austin Hoffman confirmed Lapka was cited rather than arrested due to the circumstances of the incident. Additional details have not been released.
Lapka, a Republican, is currently running unopposed for reelection in District 23, which covers McPherson and Edmunds counties and parts of several surrounding counties.
The citation follows other recent criminal cases involving South Dakota lawmakers, including charges filed earlier this year against Representative Travis Ismay and Senator Tom Pischke. Authorities say the investigation into Lapka’s case remains ongoing.
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