Four-time drunk driver gets one year suspended

A Columbia Falls man convicted of his fourth offense of drunk driving has been given a one-year suspended sentence.

Rodney Hoerner, 45, previously pleaded guilty to misdemeanor driving under the influence, reduced from a felony as part of a plea agreement that included a recommendation for the one-year suspended sentence from the Flathead County Attorney’s Office.

Hoerner failed field sobriety tests and refused breath-alcohol tests after being involved in a two-vehicle crash the night of Oct. 2, 2012. His prior convictions for drunk driving came in November 1992, September 2008 and January 2011.

District Judge Robert Allison handed down the sentence July 18, also ordering Hoerner to complete a chemical dependency evaluation and follow any treatment requirements. If he does that and remains sober, the court will recommend that he be granted a probationary driver’s license.

Hoerner was also ordered to pay a $1,000 fine and an $8 surcharge.