Politician Avoids Jail Because Ariz. Law Gives Him Immunity

Arizona state Sen. Scott Bundgaard got his very own get-out-of-jail-free card Friday night, when cops charged his girlfriend—but not him—with assault because of a screwy Arizona law that prohibits legislators from being arrested while legislature is in session. Seems Bundgaard and Aubry Ballard were on their way home from a Dancing With the Stars fundraiser, and ended up on the side of the road arguing over whether Bundgaard touched another woman inappropriately. Cops say both bore the marks of a struggle, reports CNN, constituting domestic violence under the state's laws.

Arizona's constitution grants legislators immunity "in all cases except treason, felony, and breach of the peace." "I have never inappropriately touched a woman and never would. There was no domestic violence," said Bundgaard in a statement. "I waive any and all 'immunity.' If I did something wrong, charge me." Ballard released a statement of her own: "I'm still trying to get my mind around a few things: Scott's actions, the 17 hours I spent in jail awaiting processing, my bruises, scrapes and soreness and his statements to the media." Though he avoided arrest, Bundgaard could later face charges from the city attorney's office.