The actor noted for his role as Capt. Benjamin Sisko in the 1990s television series "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" is being brought up on charges of driving under the influence (DUI) in Connecticut.

Police say 63-year-old Avery Brooks was arrested last weekend in Wilton at around 10 p.m. Sunday. Authorities say they were tipped off by another motorist about an erratic driver on the road and, upon responding, stopped Brooks. No details of the arrest are available at the time this post is being written. It's unclear what actions police took to confirm Brooks' actual condition. He is due to be arraigned next week in Norwalk.

In addition to his work in the Deep Space Nine show of the Star Trek franchise, Brooks is known for playing the role of Hawk on the TV series "Spenser: For Hire" in the 1980s. According to his biography on the website IMDB.com, Brooks is also a gifted musician. He plays jazz piano and sings. He was the first African-American to graduate with a Masters of Fine Arts degree from Rutgers University.

It's difficult to see a person of such note facing this kind of situation. The consequences of just the accusation of driving under the influence can be so damaging to an individual. Conviction can lead to harsh fines and other penalties. Costs of fines for first time offenders can range from $500 to $1,000. The possibility of jail time also exists.

Anyone facing charges of driving under the influence should get in touch with an attorney quickly to be sure that their rights are fully protected.

Source: lohud.com, "'Star Trek: Deep Space Nine' actor Avery Brooks charged with DUI in Connecticut," AP, Feb. 2, 2012