Man Facing Felony Charges for Sixth OWI Offense

 Posted on June 15, 2016 in Operating While Under the Influence

In 2014 alone, there were more than 24,000 OWI convictions in the state of Wisconsin. Some of those convictions were for repeat offenders who had at least one other prior conviction, which likely lead to increased penalties. A man recently arrested on his sixth OWI charge and facing felony charges shows just how severe repeat OWI conviction penalties can be. In turn, his case shows the importance of high quality legal representation for any and all OWI arrests.

Felony Charges for Man Arrested on Sixth OWI

According to the Chicago Tribune, a driver called the police and reported that they were following a reckless driver. Allegedly weaving all over the roadway, the driver eventually stopped at a restaurant where police apprehended him and took him into custody. Because the man has five prior convictions (1999, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2007), prosecutors requested that his bail be set at $250,000 to reduce his risk of release before trial. If convicted on the charges he is facing – an enhanced Class 3 felony – he could face up to 30 years of imprisonment without the option for probation.

How Wisconsin Measures Up in OWI charges

Although the man currently facing charges is a resident in Illinois, the state of Wisconsin has similarly harsh penalties for subsequent OWI charges. A second offense can carry an imprisonment term of up to six months, license suspension for 12 to 18 months, and the mandatory use of an interlock device for up to 18 months. However, by the fourth offense within five years, Wisconsin residents face a Class H felony charge that can result in imprisonment of up to six years, license revocation for up to three years, and the mandatory use of an interlock device of up to three years.

In addition to those charges, Wisconsin drivers arrested on an OWI could may face other charges and penalties. If, for example, the DUI arrest occurs while a license is suspended or in a vehicle where there is no interlock and one is required, there will be additional charges. If a crash that results in death or injury occurs, there could be charges like negligent homicide or operating while intoxicated causing injury, which also carry heightened penalties. And, for those who are arrested for a DUI with a child under the age of 16 in the vehicle, the penalties of an OWI conviction are doubled.

Arrested for a OWI? Get the Legal Representation You Need and Deserve

Whether you are facing your first OWI charge or your third, fourth, fifth, or beyond, it is critical that you obtain high quality legal defense. Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP have more than 40 years of experience and can provide you with the legal representation you need. Aggressive and comprised of former law enforcement and prosecuting attorneys, our firm has the investigatory skills needed to help you can achieve the best possible solution for your unique circumstances. Schedule your consultation with our Milwaukee OWI attorneys to learn more. Call 414-271-1440 today.

Sources:

http://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/safety/education/drunk-drv/default.aspx

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/lake-county-news-sun/crime/ct-lns-zion-man-gets-sixth-dui-waukegan-st-0420-20160419-story.html

http://wisconsindot.gov/Documents/safety/education/drunk-drv/owi-penchrt.pdf