A Hempstead school board member seeking re-election was arrested last night after police say she was caught with marijuana in her car.

Lynbrook police say Melissa Figueroa, 37, was pulled over on Lakeview Avenue near Ocean Avenue for not wearing a seat belt. An officer smelled marijuana and saw a burned joint in the car, according to police.

Figueroa was taken into custody around 10:30 p.m. Thursday and released on an appearance ticket. She is due back in court on June 15. 

Figueroa was arrested a couple hours after the Hempstead School Board confirmed its new superintendent. She wouldn't come to the door of her home in Hempstead to talk to News 12 this morning, but her parents did. Luis and Evelyn Figueroa claim a fellow board member is behind the situation. Her mother called the entire situation a set-up.

“Remember that the question should be asked - why was Lamont Johnson following her to the precinct and some of the protesters?” said Figueroa’s mother, Evelyn.

Lamont Johnson told News 12 that the Figueroas’ claims are not true, saying that he did not follow Melissa Figueroa and that he wasn’t at the police station. Johnson said he wishes her the best and hopes she gets help.

Figueroa's parents say she is still running for re-election, but some parents in the district told News 12 that her arrest was concerning.

News 12 called the Hempstead School District and the superintendent for a comment but did not hear back.