Man challenges fourth DUI charge

A Kalispell man facing his fourth offense of drunken driving pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court.

Ronald Foster, 51, was reportedly stopped by a Montana Highway Patrol trooper on April 3 after someone reported a drunken driver northbound on U.S. 2. The trooper located the vehicle in question driving halfway in each lane, and witnessed it cross a lane line twice, according to a court document.

Foster allegedly smelled of alcohol, slurred his words and had bloodshot eyes, and also had trouble finding documents requested by the trooper.

He allegedly admitted he had been drinking, and the trooper reported seeing marijuana sitting in plain view on the front seat.

The court document states Foster failed field sobriety tests and breath alcohol tests.

His prior convictions for drunken driving came in November 1994, December 2006, and April 2008. If convicted, he faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to five years in prison and a fine of between $1,000 and $10,000.

Foster’s next hearing is set for June 12.