In most cases, Americans who work hard to better the lives of others are seen as exceptional citizens in the community. People who have a good education, raise money for charities and volunteer their time in the community meet the qualifications of the ideal image of a good Wisconsin citizen. However, one bad decision can turn the life of an exemplary individual into a criminal in a split second.
One such man was left apologizing to the courts and to a young man’s family after being sentenced to five years in prison for the charge of homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle. Following his prison sentence, he will be supervised for an additional five years. This comes after the 44-year-old man was found driving down the wrong side of the freeway, which caused a deadly collision with a young man who was on his way to celebrate his sister’s birthday.
The man was severely intoxicated, with a blood alcohol content level of 0.23 percent. This is nearly three times over Wisconsin’s legal limit of 0.08 percent. He was somewhat incoherent after the accident occurred. Having several drinks that evening, the man made the unfortunate decision to get behind the wheel afterward. The man, who was going through a divorce, was traveling to see his 4-year-old son at the time of the incident.
While some intoxicated drivers repeatedly engage in the deadly practice of drinking and driving, it only takes one instance to change the lives of many people forever. Those who make the poor choice to drink and drive may face severe consequences, especially if their decision results in loss of life. People facing a DUI conviction may want to contact an attorney who can lend vital legal advice about their case.
Source: EH Extra, “Illinois man sentenced to prison,” Dan Kitkowski, June 5, 2014.