Maine "gun tattoo" man arrested for stealing drugs

NORRIDGEWOCK, Maine - A man who made headlines last March for having a realistic-looking tattoo of a gun on his stomach had the real thing tucked into his waistband when he was arrested Friday, police said.

Police told the Morning Sentinel that 41-year-old Michael Smith, of Norridgewock, showed up at a sheriff's deputy's home Thursday night. He was crying and had been drinking, authorities said.

Smith told police he had a fight with his ex-girlfriend and had stolen prescription narcotics from her, according to police.

He was charged with stealing drugs, and his gun was confiscated. He was released from jail on $1,000 bail. His phone has been disconnected, and he couldn't be reached for comment.

Madison police Officer Eric Bronson said Smith was carrying a .40-caliber Glock but isn't facing any gun charges because Maine is an open-carry state and his weapon was visible.

Smith's next court date is Aug. 6.

In March, members of a tree removal crew that Smith had told to clear off his property reported that he had a gun. But the gun turned out to be his tattoo.

He told the newspaper then that the tattoo had never been a problem before. He wasn't charged in that case.