Lakeside man contests fourth DUI

A 57-year-old Lakeside man pleaded not guilty to what would be his fourth offense over a span of 23 years of driving under the influence Thursday during Flathead District Court.

His prior convictions for DUI came in July 1988, July 1992 and December 1994.

According to court documents, a trooper with the Montana Highway Patrol stopped Craig Wilson on Jan. 15 for speeding and failing to dim his high beams for oncoming traffic.

The trooper smelled alcohol on Wilson's breath, and reported that Wilson admitted having too much to drink.

Wilson failed a sobriety test at the scene.

If convicted, Wilson faces 13 months in prison or a residential alcohol treatment program, a consecutive sentence of up to five years in prison and a fine of between $1,000 and $10,000.

His next hearing is scheduled for March 7.