Kalispell man denies seventh DUI charge

A Kalispell man pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to an alleged seventh instance of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 

Ralph Herbert Brander, 54, has been released from jail in the case, which is set for a jury trial in 2017.

According to court documents, Brander was stopped Oct. 28 at approximately 9:35 p.m. in the southbound lane of Montana 83, after a trooper noticed his vehicle drifting within its lane.

The trooper stopped Brander, who allegedly demonstrated signs of intoxication.

Brander allegedly blew over the legal limit when a breath test was requested. Brander allegedly admitted to drinking alcohol and provided a blood sample at the hospital that was sent to Montana State Crime Lab. Brander has prior DUI convictions from 2008, 2005, 1998, 1997 and two in 1994.