DUI charge dropped against ex-Atlantic Beach mayor

MARION, S.C. (AP) — A driving under the influence charge has been dropped against a former mayor of Atlantic Beach.

Authorities said Tuesday that tests for Retha Pierce showed there were no drugs or alcohol in her system when an officer found her asleep in her car just off U.S. 501 in Marion County in September 2009.

Another motorist called 911 to report Pierce was driving recklessly. She says she was tired and pulled over to take a nap.

Pierce was arrested four times in two years, but charges have been dropped in two of the cases. She is awaiting trial for the other two incidents.

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