Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

KERSHAW COUNTY (WACH) - Authorities say an Elgin Town Councilman has been arrested again. This time, he is accused of assaulting his wife.

Officials with the Kershaw County Sheriff's Office say Norman Allen Ernst, 41, is charged with criminal domestic violence.

The victim filed a report claiming Ernst struck her on the head with a large flashlight at his business, Elgin Quick Lube, on the evening of March 16, according to the sheriff's office. She also says another incident occurred on March 17 and she was treated for injuries at a Columbia hospital.

A statement from the sheriff's office says deputies searched Ernst's home and found two guns and a small amount of marijuana. As a convicted felon, Ernst is prohibited from owning firearms or ammunition.

Authorities say an arrest warrant was obtained for Ernst and officers statewide were notified.

The State Law Enforcement Division was brought in to investigate the assaults because they took place in Elgin and Ernst was an elected official.

Ernst was taken into custody by the Mt. Pleasant Police Department. He was in possession of a pistol grip shotgun at the time of the arrest, according to the statement. He was taken to the Kershaw County Jail.

Sheriff Jim Matthews says his officers have contacted the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) who are assisting with the investigation relative to Ernst being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

In January 2012, Ernst was arrested and charged with malicious injury to property.

Ernst has previous arrests dating back to 2001, several of which were dismissed and has convictions for drugs, contributing to the delinquency of a minor and unlawful use of a telephone.