In traffic stops, state troopers have little choice but to issue a citation in clear-cut cases, a patrol spokesman said.

The Highway Patrol is conducting an internal investigation into why Trooper N.A. Mitchell did not cite state Rep. Cary Allred for driving 102 miles an hour in a 65 mile-an-hour zone. The patrol issued a citation days after reports emerged that Allred was stopped and let go with a warning. 

Capt. Everett Clendenin, a patrol spokesman, said issuing the citation was the "proper action." He said the investigation could take a month. The patrol's policy is to issue a citation or make an arrest in cases where a violation has clearly occurred.

Members shall issue a North Carolina Uniform Citation or arrest for all definite, clear-cut and substantial violations. Members shall not issue citations or make arrests for frivolous, technical, or borderline violations. Factors such as race, sex, economic standards, familial, political or fraternal affiliation shall not influence a member in any manner whatsoever. Every arrest made or citation issued shall be in accordance with North Carolina law and Patrol policy. Members who violate the law or Patrol directives may be subject to discipline by the Patrol.

The Highway Patrol cited Rep. Cary Allred Friday for a Monday night speeding incident.

Allred was cited for driving 102 miles per hour in a 65 zone in Orange County, said Sgt. J.E. Brewer, a spokesman for the Highway Patrol. On Monday night, Allred was stopped as he was driving to the legislative session from Burlington.

Allred said Thursday in an interview that he told the trooper he was on his way to the legislature to vote. The trooper asked to see identification beyond a drivers license and Allred said he produced his legislative ID. The trooper, N.A. Mitchell, let Allred go with a warning.

News of the stop became public Thursday when House leaders revealed they were inquiring into other events that night. Various people reported that Allred was intoxicated and improperly hugged a teenaged page. Allred denied any impropriety.

Patrol officials consulted with the Orange County District Attorney on Friday and were told to issue a citation for the Monday night speeding incident, Brewer said. The trooper who stopped Allred had him on radar, Brewer said.

It is unclear why the trooper did not cite Allred for speeding Monday night.

"We're looking into that right now," Brewer said.