Drivers in Wisconsin are keenly aware of the potential penalties for a drunk driving arrest. In the state, it is generally referred to as operating while intoxicated (OWI). If there is a conviction, the circumstances will determine the severity of the penalties. A key aspect of the case is the number of times the person might have been arrested and convicted for OWI in the past. For people who have more than one arrest, there can be enhanced penalties. If it reaches five or more arrests, they can be substantially worse. When confronted by this situation, it is imperative to have a strong legal defense.
Appleton resident charged with OWI for the sixth time
A 37-year-old man was arrested for OWI after a traffic stop. It was the sixth time he has been arrested for this type of violation. According to law enforcement, he was driving in an erratic manner at about 9:30 p.m. The officer investigated and determined that the man showed indicators for being impaired. The driver was given a field sobriety test and the officer brought him to have his blood drawn to gauge his level of intoxication. He was arrested for OWI.
Multiple OWI arrests will lead to penalties of greater severity
The possible penalties for OWI will vary depending on the situation. A first offense with a blood-alcohol content of more than 0.08% will result in a fine of $150 to $300 with a OWI surcharge of $435. The driver’s license will be revoked for six to nine months. The penalties escalate for a higher BAC and for a rising number of OWI convictions. Since this man faces a sixth OWI, there can be a fine of $600 to $25,000, plus the surcharge. It is a Class G felony meaning there can be up to 10 years in jail. The driver’s license will be revoked for two to three years in addition to the time the person is incarcerated.
Legal assistance is a must with multiple past OWI convictions
No matter the charges the person is dealing with and if they have a prior record of OWIs, it is a must to have legal advice to combat the charges and try to avoid the worst consequences. There could have been a problem with the traffic stop, the testing procedure might not have been done according to the law, or the man might have a reason for which he appeared to be under the influence. To begin a defense, a legal representative with experience in all areas of criminal defense and OWI may be able to help.
