Man challenges latest DUI charge

A Columbia Falls man has pleaded not guilty to what would be his fourth drunk driving offense after allegedly being found passed out in his car.

Dustin Curtis Hanson, 34, entered his plea in Flathead District Court.

A court document alleges Columbia Falls police were dispatched to Mike’s Conoco on Sept. 13, where they found Hanson slumped over the steering wheel of his still-running vehicle. An officer turned the car off and took the keys and medical personnel roused Hanson.

When an officer tried to talk with Hanson, Hanson allegedly slurred his speech, had bloodshot eyes and smelled of alcohol.  

Hanson allegedly failed field sobriety tests before refusing to provide a breath or blood sample.

The document states Hanson’s prior convictions for drunk driving came in November 1999, December 2000 and April 2003.

Hanson was initially incarcerated in the Flathead County Detention Center, where his bond was set at $25,000, but he was eventually released on his own recognizance with the stipulation that he wear a remote alcohol monitoring bracelet.

His next hearing is set for Oct. 30.