Man admits driving charges

A 48-year-old Kalispell man pleaded guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to amended charges of felony criminal endangerment and misdemeanor driving under the influence.

Billy King was originally charged with felony driving under the influence, having been convicted of the offense four prior times in October 1984, July 1987, January 1990 and November 1992.

King was stopped by a Montana Highway Patrol trooper on March 24, 2011, after being reported as a possible drunk driver and being seen by the trooper driving slowly and weaving in the lane. During the stop, King admitted he had been drinking and failed field sobriety and breath alcohol tests.

King faces up to 10 years and six months in prison and a fine of up to $51,000 when he is sentenced on Feb. 7, but a six-year suspended sentence is being recommended.