OCONTO, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Douglas Kluth of Green Bay was sentenced to six and a half years in prison Thursday following his 11th offense of operating while intoxicated.
The judge’s final decision was a year and a half longer than the state’s recommended five years. Prosecutors called Kluth’s actions “outrageous and almost unbelievable,” adding that “he’s showed no willingness to change.”
The felony offense carries a maximum sentence of up to 15 years in prison.
Kluth appeared at the Oconto County Courthouse in a bright green prison uniform. He addressed the court before his sentencing.
“I’d like to apologize to the people, this court, and my family for my actions. I realize I’m facing the loss of my freedom, isolation from my family, and stiff fines and fees, and I take responsibility for my actions, my behavior. I promise to utilize all the help and AODA education available so I can maintain my sobriety and my future,” said Kluth.
Judge Michael T. Judge and Kluth’s lawyer, Brad Hansen, both read off a list of Kluth’s accolades, including the fact that he is a veteran of the U.S. Army with an honorable discharge and a good work record.
“We have a man that has shown to be a very caring responsible person in our community and yet we’re dealing with a chronic drunk driver,” said Judge.
Then, Judge recounted the night Kluth was arrested.
“Mr. Kluth is driving home on a snowy day, on a small highway with a small shoulder. He sees an officer off to the side and he’s not sure if the officer is stuck in the ditch or just sitting there, he pulls up adjacent to him, rolls down his window and offers help. And later he’s in custody and now he’s before the court,” Hansen said.
When Kluth pulled over, the state trooper spotted a can of beer.
Two of Kluth’s prior OWIs resulted in injury, and he has been imprisoned three times.
“Even though Mr. Kluth has been imprisoned on three other occasions he returns to his lifestyle of drinking and driving,” said Judge.
Kluth’s sentence includes credit for 204 days already served. Once released, he will be on extended supervision for four years. Other conditions include absolute sobriety on supervision, his driver’s license will be revoked for 3 years, and any car he operates must have a breath alcohol ignition interlock device.
