Karen Huger Sentenced to Prison Time for Drunk Driving Charges

Image credits: Shannon Finney/Bravo

Karen Huger, a star on Bravo's "The Real Housewives of Potomac," was sentenced to two years in prison, with one year suspended, for her role in a drunk driving incident that occurred in March 2024. The 61-year-old reality TV star was found guilty of multiple charges, including driving under the influence (DUI), negligent driving, and failure to control speed. Huger's sentence also includes five years of probation, and she has 30 days to appeal the judge's decision. The sentencing hearing took place in a Montgomery County Circuit Court, where Huger apologized to the judge and stated that she would attend AA meetings for the rest of her life.

Huger's troubles began on March 19, 2024, when she crashed her Maserati into a pole near Oaklyn Drive in Potomac. A jury later found her guilty of five out of six charges, including DUI, negligent driving, failure to control speed, and failure to notify authorities of an address change. During the trial, body camera footage and witness testimony revealed the severity of Huger's intoxication, with an EMT testifying that Huger swayed on her feet and refused medical treatment. The footage also showed Huger slurring her speech, cursing at officers, and refusing a breathalyzer and field sobriety test.

In the months leading up to her sentencing, Huger checked into a private recovery program in Florida to address her issues with alcohol. She also replaced her legal team and entered into a private recovery program, which she said was an attempt to "get to the bottom" of her problems with drinking and taking antidepressants. Huger's new attorney, David Martella, stated that the trial had a "profound impact" on Huger, and that she has been active in Alcoholics Anonymous since her return from the treatment center. The recovery program and Huger's newfound commitment to sobriety may have factored into the judge's decision to suspend part of her sentence.

Here is a list of the charges Huger was found guilty of: * Driving under the influence (DUI) * Negligent driving * Failure to control speed * Failure to notify authorities of an address change * Driving a vehicle in excess of reasonable and prudent speed on the highway * Driving a vehicle on the highway with suspended registration. Huger was acquitted of reckless driving. The prosecutor, Jordan Kramer, noted in filings that Huger had three previous alcohol-related traffic cases between 2006 and 2011, which may have influenced the judge's decision to impose a stricter sentence.

The sentencing of Karen Huger serves as a reminder of the dangers of drunk driving and the importance of seeking help for addiction. Huger's case has been closely followed by fans of the Real Housewives of Potomac, and her sentencing has sparked a wider conversation about the need for accountability and rehabilitation in cases of drunk driving. As Huger begins her sentence and continues on her path to recovery, her fans and fellow cast members will be watching to see how she navigates this challenging time.