Deputy on leave following DUI arrest

Photo: Skylar McDowell (DeSoto County Jail photo)

HERNANDO, Miss. — A DeSoto County sheriff’s deputy has been placed on administrative leave following an arrest for driving under the influence early Sunday morning.

Skylar McDowell, 34, was taken into custody by authorities in Hernando. According to DeSoto County jail records, McDowell was booked into the facility at 3:50 a.m. Sunday.

When contacted, a Sheriff’s Department spokesperson offered the following statement:

“We have been made aware that Deputy Skylar McDowell was taken into custody last night by the Hernando Police Department for a DUI,” the spokesperson said. “At the time of her arrest, Deputy McDowell was off duty.”

“She was processed at the DeSoto County Detention Facility, posted bond this morning, and has now been released.” the statement continued. “She is currently on administrative leave while we conduct an internal investigation in accordance with agency policy.”\

McDowell posted a $750 bond and was released several hours later.

The investigation remains ongoing and the Hernando Police Department has been contacted as we are seeking additional information.