Lawmaker Accused of Urinating in Public

Charges were filed against a female member of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen who allegedly urinated in a wastebasket rather than yield the floor during a filibuster.

City Counselor Patricia A. Hageman filed the misdemeanor charge against Irene Smith, accusing her of violating the city code barring lewd conduct, which bars public urination.

Smith could face a fine of up to $500 and up to 90 days in jail, although jail time would be unusual for such an offense. No hearing date has been set.

After being told she must yield if she left for a restroom break, Smith--her aides surrounding her with a sheet, tablecloth and quilt--appeared to use a trash can to relieve herself.