Local

Fulton County elections director resigns

ATLANTA — After a drunken driving arrest, a revoked probation and a slew of elections problems, Fulton County's director of elections has resigned from his post.

"After much reflection, I believe it is in the department's best interest to have a leader that enjoys the full support of this board as we move forward toward this important general election," Samuel Westmoreland said in a letter this weekend.

Westmoreland was initially arrested in September 2009 on DUI charges. Blood tests later found he had several prescription drugs in his system, including Xanax.

He was placed on 12-months' probation, but a judge revoked it in July because he hadn't completed DUI school, a Mothers Against Drunk Driving course and 40 hours of community service.

The judge then sentenced Westmoreland to 10 days in jail, but according to court documents, held off on sending him to jail immediately because he wanted to prevent a hardship on voters. The revocation came days before the July 31 primary election.

The election was plagued with problems, with hundreds of voters not being able to cast ballots because of incorrect district assignments. There were also reports of dubious turnout percentages, including one precinct at 3,300 percent.

The mix-ups prompted an apology from Westmoreland. At the time, he vowed to have all problems fixed by the November election.

It is unclear who will replace Westmoreland, but he expressed willingness to help with the adjustment.

"I am very proud of the work we have accomplished and willing to reasonably assist the board and department during this transition process," he said.