W.VA Radio: WCHS Talker Suspended Following DUI

Mike Agnello

Charleston police arrested WCHS radio talk show host Michael Agnello early Sunday morning on charges of drunk driving.  Agnello was picked up at about 12:30 am.

Charleston Police Deputy Chief Jason Beckett says a unit on DUI patrol stopped Agnello after they spotted him swerving in traffic.    Beckett says Agnello recorded a .194 on the breathalyzer, twice the legal limit. He was taken to the South Central Regional Jail.

Agnello, who hosts a nighttime talk show on WCHS 580 AM, has been taken off the air following his arrest.  “We have suspended him without pay pending the outcome of the investigation,” said station General Manager Mike Buxser.

It’s the second time Agnello has been charged with DUI. He was also arrested in 2009.  Additionally, Agnello was charged in 2010 with domestic battery, an arrest that led to his firing.  He was later rehired by the station.

“We believe in second chances,” Buxser said.  “However, this latest arrest is a serious matter and we will take appropriate action when all the facts are in.”