State Senator Virgil Smith Arraigned On Assault, Domestic Violence, Firearms Charges

DETROIT (WWJ) -  A Michigan state senator has been arraigned on multiple charges after he was accused of shooting his ex-wife's car during a domestic dispute at his Detroit home.

The Wayne County Prosecutor's office charged 35-year-old Sen. Virgil Smith with felonious assault, felony firearm, domestic violence assault and battery, and malicious destruction of personal property $20,000 or more.

Smith appeared via video in 36th District Court where a not guilty plea was entered on his behalf.

Prosecutor Kym Worthy said Smith's 35-year-old ex-wife arrived at his home about 1 a.m. Sunday and found another woman there. That's when the shooting allegedly occurred.

"The alleged actions of Senator Smith cannot and will not be tolerated.  We asked for further work on the warrant and the information was received this morning," Worthy said, in a statement. "We let the facts and evidence guide our charging decision and nothing else."

Bond for Smith was set at $25,000, 10 percent on the condition that, if he's released, he have no contact with his ex-wife.

Detroit Police Chief James Craig said investigators called to Smith's home by his ex, early Sunday morning, found that 10 shots had been fired into her Mercedes-Benz.

Smith and his ex-wife had recently been dating again, according to reports. No one was injured.

Smith, a Democrat, represents Michigan's fourth senate district, including portions of Detroit, Lincoln Park, Allen Park and Southgate.

[Michigan Senate Leader Hints At Resignation Of Senator Facing Assault Charges]

A statement released Tuesday night from the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus, of which Sen. Virgil Smith chairs, says it "opposes violence and understands the seriousness of the allegations." However, they would like to urge due process and equal protection in this matter . . ."

They go on to say that while some are calling for Smith's resignation, they feel any punitive action taken at this time would be premature.

His next court appearance was scheduled for Friday, May 22.