Recognize the name Ian Smith? He's the defiant South Jersey gym owner who refused to comply with state regulations during the pandemic.

Smith, the controversial owner of Atilis Gym in Bellmawr who incurred fines and more serious charges rather than close his gym or mandate masks for members, was arrested on March 27th on a DWI, NJ.com reports.

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After cops reportedly observed Smith's pickup truck swerving on northbound Route 130 in Cinnaminson, and nearly swiping another vehicle, he was pulled over and given a field sobriety test.

NJ.com/YouTube via Cinnaminson Police Dept.
NJ.com/YouTube via Cinnaminson Police Dept.
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But, Smith wasn't having it, challenging the officers' observations. On dashcam video, Smith can be heard telling officers that he's currently a Republican candidate for Congress. It may be a fact, but also an obvious attempt to avoid being charged and arrested for driving while intoxicated.

Smith also tried to blame having a lack of control over his vehicle on the truck's faulty suspension, NJ.com reports.

And, at one point, he even insinuated the police had been "paid" to pull him over, and that someone possibly put a "hit" out on him.

Once taken to Cinnaminson Police Department, Smith would not comply with any additional sobriety testing, saying he doesn't trust the government, according to NJ.com.

He reportedly admitted to consuming a "double margarita" while out to dinner that night. He was not given a breathalyzer test on the scene.

What do you make of Ian Smith's traffic stop?

This is not the first time he's been charged with drunk driving. In fact, in 2007, Smith was convicted of vehicular manslaughter after an accident he caused while intoxicated resulted in the death of 19-year-old Kevin Ade, of Galloway.

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