For many, drinking is an enjoyable time to unwind and not think about life’s stressors. However, when a person fails to consume alcohol moderately, he or she can quickly become intoxicated. Driving while under the influence of alcohol can certainly lead to legal consequences but deciding to do it more than once may result in more serious and long-term impacts. One man is facing this type of felony DUI situation in Tennessee.

In his case, the 61-year-old man allegedly stole a vehicle and drove it while inebriated. He ended up colliding with several parked automobiles in the parking lot of grocery store as well as a public works vehicle near an intersection. Police said that the man appeared to be under the influence of alcohol and could not stand steadily on his feet.

He was arrested on a DUI charge after taking a Breathalyzer test. The arrest was his fifth for driving while intoxicated. His most recent DUI conviction took place only eight months prior to his current arrest. In Tennessee, four DUI convictions are considered a felony.

A DUI charge, especially when it is not an individual’s first, is serious, as it can receive classification as a felony DUI instead of a misdemeanor. This is why a person who is charged and convicted of a fifth DUI might face multiple years in jail, depending on the situation and the judge’s final decision. Before a person who faces felony DUI charges can be convicted, prosecutors must prove the person’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The accused in Tennessee is entitled to the same legal protections that apply to everyone charged with committing a crime.

Source: wdef.com, Drunken joyride in Red Bank leaves several vehicles damaged, Erik Avanier, Jan. 15, 2014