A Milwaukee woman was arrested over the 4th of July weekend after driving intoxicated (OWI) with two underage children in her car - she had a .16 BAC. According to reports the woman nearly struck a police officer directing traffic after a fireworks show Sunday night. She subsequently stopped and her children, ages 6 and 13, were later taken into custody by Child Protective Services.
The drunk driver faces two counts of DUI-2nd with child under 16 along with other traffic citations including operating while suspended. She is already facing OWI-2nd offense charges stemming from a March arrest and the weekend arrest may very well result in DUI-3rd offense.
In Wisconsin, you can be charged with DUI/OWI if you drive with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher. Those under the age of 21 are limited to .02%. Penalties for repeated drunk driving may result in incarceration, substantial fines, license revocation and the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID). Higher BAC concentrations or having children in the car when you drink and drive often increase the penalties.
The consequences for repeated OWI can be dire and experienced legal representation is crucial to defend against these charges. If you have been charged with Wisconsin OWI/DUI, contact the criminal defense Law Offices of Andrew C. Ladd LLC for help.
Source: WDJT Milwukee, “Woman Arrested after Almost Striking Deputy after Fireworks on Lincoln Memorial Drive”, by Christie Green, July 6, 2016.
