Traverse City Official Quits After Alcohol-Related Incident

TRAVERSE CITY (AP) — The manager who oversees city government in Traverse City has resigned, more than a week after police were called to his house during an alcohol-related incident.

Jered Ottenwess quit Friday, the same day he pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor charges of domestic violence and attempting to resist police.

Police reports released to news media show Ottenwess was very drunk when officers arrived on Feb. 16. Police say his mother indicated that he had been drinking for four days and "ripping up our house."

Officer Mark Witczak says he was poised to fire his Taser after Ottenwess clenched his fists. He says Ottenwess then "fell to his knees and started to cry."

Ottenwess didn't speak in court. Judge Michael Stepka told him the charges are serious.