Liquor official removed after DUI arrest

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The head of Kansas City's liquor control department has been removed from his position after he was arrested for allegedly driving on alcohol and drugs, the city manager said Saturday.

Eldon Audsley received a ticket Oct. 25 that alleges he was driving "while under the influence of alcohol and drugs to a degree which renders him incapable of safely operating a motor vehicle," records obtained by The Kansas City Star said.

City Manager Bob Collins said Audsley was removed from his position as the city manager of regulated industries just more than a week ago. But Collins said Audsley was not fired and could return to the job.

Audsley's attorney, William O'Sullivan, said his client was on personal leave until the charge is resolved in court.

O'Sullivan said it was the "most phony, false charge" he's seen in his career. He said his client's blood alcohol level was below Missouri's legal limit, and a urine sample twice tested negative for drugs.

The ticket did not provide results of a blood test. Audsley, 50, is scheduled to appear in Kansas City municipal court on Tuesday.

O'Sullivan said Audsley was not available for comment.

He said his client hoped to return to city government in a position with less responsibility and then work toward retirement, which he will be eligible for in about a year.