Laurel City Council member Tony Wheat has issued a statement apologizing and asking forgiveness after his weekend arrest for DUI.

Officers at the Laurel Police Department said Wheat was stopped Saturday around midnight and booked into jail on a charge of driving under the influence. Officers said Wheat, a council member since July 2005, was released on bond about 45 minutes later.

When reached Monday by the Laurel Leader-Call newspaper, Wheat issued a statement in which he apologized to local residents and other city officials.

“I have turned to my faith, my family, and my friends for support and take full responsibility for my behavior. I am deeply sorry for my actions and also regret causing any embarrassment to those close to me and the citizens I represent.

“I will continue my service to the best of my ability. My character and integrity is steadfast, and with your forgiveness and understanding we can continue working together to make Laurel a better place to live,” Wheat said.