FREDERICK, Md. (AP) -- A Frederick police officer is accused of driving under the influence while in his patrol car and leaving the scene of an accident.

The Frederick News-Post reports that Officer Robert Pierce was under the influence while driving on U.S. 15 on March 28 when he crashed his patrol car into a guardrail. Police say he left the scene and was later found in Middletown.

Frederick County State's Attorney Charlie Smith says his office has referred the case to a special prosecutor in Carroll County
because of a conflict of interest.

A Frederick police department spokesman says Pierce remains suspended.

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