LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WHAS11) – A Seneca High School principal has been arrested and charged after an alleged drunk driving incident.
Police say 37-year-old Kimberly Harbolt was traveling in her vehicle at a high rate of speed near Breckenridge Lane and St. Germaine Court around 12:30 a.m. Saturday.
According to the arrest report, the arresting officer said Harbolt's eyes were "glossy and red" and the smell of alcohol was coming from her breath. The principal did admit to the officer that she had two beers 30 minutes before she was stopped.
Police also said Harbolt had difficulty completing a field sobriety test and her blood alcohol level was reported as .080.
Harbolt has been principal at Seneca since August where she served as a popular assistant principal, according to the Courier-Journal.
Jefferson County Public Schools didn't have any immediate information on what their next steps regarding disciplinary action would be.
Harbolt is facing operating a motor vehicle under the influence, speeding and failure to notify the Department of Transportation because of an address change.
Statement from Superintendent Donna Hargens on the arrest and charges involving Seneca High School Principal Kim Harbolt:
"As a school district, JCPS takes safe driving seriously. We work hard to teach our students the perils of driving under the influence and driving while distracted. I know it is difficult for Seneca High Schools students, their families and school staff that their principal faces charges. The lesson is: Every day we hold our students accountable for their actions. Every adult must be held accountable as well."
Letter from Harbolt to Seneca Families:
"Dear Redhawk Families,
You may have seen or heard media reports that I was charged in a driving-related incident over the weekend. I appreciate your texts, calls, and messages; I apologize that I didn't have the opportunity to talk to you first. I am unable to respond to everyone, so I wanted to say thank you for the overwhelming support.
This is an unfortunate personal issue, yet I remain steadfast. We all work tirelessly for our scholars and I am committed to you and your scholar.
I am requesting leave to take time to deal with this situation. I care too much about the scholars and champions at Seneca High to allow this to be a disruption. Please help me in focusing your scholar on our daily purpose – to learn as much as possible so that they can achieve their vision beyond Seneca.
No excuses, just results – always!"
