Port Man Stumbling Near Car Later Caught for 4th OWI

A 60-year-old Port Washington man faces charges for his 4th OWI offense after a witness noticed the driver staggering after exiting the vehicle.

Mark Wegner was charged Monday in Ozaukee County Court with one count of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. If convicted, he faces one year in jail and $2,000 in fines, as well as up to three years loss of his driving privileges; he'll the need to complete a drug and alcohol abuse assessment to get his license back.

A witness called police at 5:59 p.m. Sunday after noticing Wegner stumbling around outside his vehicle after exiting from driving, according to the criminal complaint. The witness said Wegner eventually got back into his car and drove away.

Police reported to the intersection of the incident, and found a vehicle matching the description parked in a nearby driveway, the complaint said. As the officer approached the driveway, Wegner began to back out of the driveway. 

The officer stopped Wegner, and in speaking to him noticed the smell of alcohol, the complaint said. The officer noted Wegner had slurred speech and slow movements.

Wegner at first refused to submit to field sobriety tests, then agreed, then again refused, the complaint said. While standing on the sidewalk, Wegner was having trouble keeping his balance and was staggering backwards; the officer also again noticed the smell of alcohol.

Wegner was arrested and taken to Aurora Medical Center to have his blood drawn to  test for blood alcohol content, the complaint said. His prior convictions were in 1989, 2000 and 2003.

Wegner will appear in court at 10 a.m. June 18 for a plea hearing.