SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WLNE) — Jay Wegimont, a public information officer for the Providence Public School District, was sworn in as the newest member of South Kingstown’s town council Monday night, despite an 11th hour effort by the town’s republican party. This past weekend, the South Kingstown GOP called for Wegimont’s immediate resignation, saying in part quote, “Wegimont’s extensive history of drunk driving, reckless behavior, and blatant dishonesty make him completely unfit to serve in public office.” According to court records obtained by ABC 6 News, Wegimont was arrested for DUI on Jan. 13, 2023 and March 17th, 2022. He was also charged for driving with a suspended license in November of 2021. Despite the charges, Wegimont received a vote of confidence from his new colleagues. “I’m excited, I think he’s going to bring some good skill sets to the table, he’s a young member, someone like myself, a young professional so I’m excited to see someone with a youth aspect want to come to the table and win the election and I look forward to serving with him,” South Kingstown Town Council President Rory McEntee said. Wegimont declined an interview at Monday’s town council meeting, but gave a written statement to ABC 6 News. “At a difficult time in my life I made mistakes that I regret, and that required me to take full responsibility for my actions.  These experiences became a defining turning point in my life.  I have paid my debt both legally and personally.  I have sought and received assistance as so many others in our community have done when faced with addiction challenges. I know that asking for help is a sign of strength not weakness.  With the support of my family, friends, community, and professionals, I found my way forward and have committed myself to a life of sobriety. I have worked hard to rebuild trust and ensure that my actions reflect the person I strive to be.  To anyone facing struggles I want to say don’t be afraid to ask for help. I am deeply grateful to South Kingstown for giving me the opportunity to move forward and show that the trust in me is well placed.  Every day I am determined to honor that trust and continue working to build a better future for all of us.” A spokeswoman for the Providence Public School District told ABC 6 News that the district doesn’t comment on personnel matters. Categories: News, Rhode Island