Former Sturgis police chief pleads guilty to DWI

STURGIS, Mich. -- Former Sturgis Police Chief Geoffrey Smith pleaded guilty to driving while impaired on Wednesday, according to Attorney General Dana Nessel.

Smith was sentenced to 12 months probation with in-home alcohol monitoring for the first 90 days.

He can petition for early release from probation after six months if he remains compliant with all terms and conditions.

Smith also must pay restitution, but the amount has not been determined yet.

Smith was driving on Lakeview Avenue when he struck a parked car on August 15, 2020. Smith was placed on leave, then resigned following the crash.

In January 2021, Smith was charged with one count of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, one count of operating a motor vehicle with an unlawful blood alcohol level, and one count of operating a motor vehicle with a high blood-alcohol content.

“Law enforcement must be held to a high standard. I recognize Mr. Smith’s acceptance of responsibility in this case and subsequent accountability for his actions,” Nessel said.

Share this article: