A former sheriff in Robertson County has pleaded guilty in his third DUI case within two years, avoiding further jail time while facing strict legal consequences and long-term probation.
Guilty Plea and Charges Explained
Terry Gray, 49, recently entered a guilty plea to multiple charges, including:
- Aggravated DUI
- First-degree official misconduct
- First-degree wanton endangerment
A charge of reckless driving was dropped as part of the plea agreement.
The case stems from an October 7, 2025 incident in Mason County, where Gray was allegedly caught driving at speeds exceeding 110 mph and nearly overturning his vehicle.
Sentence and Why He Avoided More Jail Time
Gray received a 365-day jail sentence for the DUI charge, with a mandatory minimum of 60 days. However, he had already spent more than 150 days in custody before sentencing, allowing the court to probate the remaining sentence for two years.
In addition:
- He was placed on five years of pretrial diversion for wanton endangerment
- All sentences will run concurrently
- He was released from custody following sentencing
Under Kentucky law, pretrial diversion allows eligible defendants to avoid prison time if they comply with strict probation conditions. Successful completion can result in charges being dismissed.
Strict Conditions and Long-Term Consequences
Gray must meet several conditions as part of his diversion program:
- Complete long-term inpatient treatment
- Pay a $1,590 fine after treatment
- Surrender his law enforcement certification
- Face a three-year driver’s license suspension
According to the Kentucky Department of Corrections, his diversion period began March 16 and will run through March 2031.
Prosecutors: Conduct Undermined Public Trust
Johnathan Gay emphasized the seriousness of the case, stating that Gray’s actions endangered lives and eroded public confidence in elected officials.
Importantly, the inclusion of the official misconduct charge ensures Gray is barred from holding public office in the future.
High BAC and Arrest Details
Court records reveal that during the 2025 arrest:
- Gray was wearing his official sheriff’s uniform
- He was carrying a firearm and handcuffs
- His blood alcohol content measured 0.226, nearly three times the legal limit
The incident occurred along U.S. Route 68 near the Mason–Robertson county line.
History of DUI Offenses
This marks Gray’s third DUI arrest in under two years:
- December 2023: Arrested after driving a marked patrol vehicle while intoxicated
- Mid-2024: Crashed a tractor and displayed erratic behavior before being stopped by police
- October 2025: High-speed incident leading to current charges
In his earlier cases, Gray entered Alford pleas, acknowledging sufficient evidence for conviction without admitting guilt.
Resignation and Political Fallout
Following his third arrest, Andy Beshear called for Gray’s resignation, citing “habitual drunkenness” under state law.
Gray stepped down from his role as sheriff, a position he had held since 2021 and regained through reelection in 2022.