Kurt D.H. Zuttermeister, a Republican candidate for state House District 49 (Maunawili, Enchanted Lake, Kane'ohe) was arrested last month for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol and driving without a valid driver's license.

It was Zuttermeister's third DUI arrest since 1997, court records show. He was found guilty in the earlier cases.

Zuttermeister's license was revoked last week as a result of the latest charge. It had been revoked in 2005 after an accident police characterized as "serious," which resulted in one of the previous DUI charges, records show.

Zuttermeister, a 41-year-old part-time cook, said he remained committed to helping the district and would not abandon the race, in which he is challenging Democratic incumbent Pono Chong.

"I want to represent my community, and we do need help in our community," Zuttermeister said. "I made a foolish mistake and I'm trying to do better."

He said he is taking full responsibility for his actions and undergoing treatment for a drinking problem.

Zuttermeister received 423 votes in the Sept. 23 primary election, narrowly defeating Minoo Elison by 13 votes for the Republican nomination.

Zuttermeister said he had been drinking at his Kane'ohe home two nights later and was arrested after police pulled him over as he drove to a nearby restaurant with no headlights on.

He said the 2005 accident occurred after he accidentally swerved off the road on a curve and struck an abandoned vehicle, but that the crash caused no injuries.

He said he regrets the embarrassment his new arrest has caused his family and supporters, and is no longer drinking or driving.

"I'm 41 years old, and it's time to grow up, I know," he said. "I went from hero to zero, and lower than zero. But since Sept. 26, I've been a straight arrow."

Chong said he had heard rumors of Zuttermeister's history and latest arrest but had decided to focus on his own campaign and not disparage his opponent.

"I hope it works out, and he can resolve any problems he has," Chong said.

Reach Johnny Brannon at jbrannon@honoluluadvertiser.com.