Driving under the influence is a serious issue that results in thousands of deaths per year in Colorado and the rest of the country. People make mistakes. Some people make the same mistake more than once. A felony charge for driving under the influence (DUI) comes when a person has been charged with the crime for a fourth or subsequent time in Colorado. Today, we will take a look at the penalties for felony DUI in the state.
A person charged with a fourth or subsequent DUI in Colorado faces the following penalties if convicted:
A mandatory sentence of 90 days in prison
No more than 180 days in prison
No option for a reduction in sentence due to good behavior
Defendant does receive credit for time served after initial arrest and prior to being convicted
Another sentencing option is as follows:
Mandatory 120 days in prison
No more than two years in prison using an alternative program, if it is available through the county
A defendant is not eligible for early release for good behavior during the first 120 days in prison
The defendant is eligible for time served from arrest to conviction if he or she spent time in jail
If the offender receives a probation sentence, the penalties are as follows:
48 to 120 hours of public service
Completion of a Level II alcohol and driving safety program
Consideration for imposing other conditions of the probation
Felony DUI is a serious crime in Colorado that comes with harsh penalties. It’s important to know what you could be facing if you are charged with DUI for a fourth or subsequent time in the state so you can fight the charges against you appropriately.
