Carbondale Reporter

The Williamson County Clerk resigned from her position after being arrested for a DUI.

The 33-year-old Republican Circuit Clerk, Austin Crabb, was arrested on Jan. 20 for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol, just months after winning her seat in the November general elections.

Her first court appearance is on Feb. 24.

Upon hearing about her arrest, the Williamson County Republican Party called for her resignation, stating that those elected to positions within the party were expected to be held to a high standard and were an example to the entire community.

In a Jan. 23 release on WSILTV, the local Republican Party alleged that Crabb admitted to police officers: "I was drinking at the courthouse ... in my office actually ... consuming alcoholic beverages in the Williamson County Courthouse, I'm an elected official. I have alcohol in my courthouse."

Crabb also allegedly called police officers "pathetic."

Williamson County Republican Chairman Jeff Diederich said in a release that while the party is supportive of its members, there is a responsibility to uphold Republican values and beliefs.

"One of these principles is our unwavering support of the law enforcement community," Diederich said. "The men and women who put their lives on the line each and every day deserve our appreciation and respect."

Diederich called Crabb's DUI allegation a "lapse in judgment by consuming alcoholic beverages at the Williamson County Courthouse, I am calling for the immediate resignation of Williamson County Circuit Clerk Austin Crabb."

Diederich stated that he is up to the challenge of choosing a new candidate to serve in this position that is more deserving of the party's support.

"We commend her for taking the timely and appropriate steps toward repairing this difficult situation," the Williamson County Republican Party said on Facebook.