Woman Facing 2nd Degree DWI for Driving With Children in Vehicle

A Minnesota woman is facing 2nd degree DWI charges for driving with two young children, ages 6 and 7, in her vehicle.

Lisa Joan Harris was charged with refusing a DWI test, 2nd degree DWI, and driving over the center line.  The 2nd degree DWI charges stem from two factors that enhance the charges from simple DWI to aggravated DWI: driving with children in the vehicle, and having a prior conviction of DWI-child endangerment with a BAC of .20 or more. Harris' previous conviction occurred in November of 2000.

Harris' recent arrest took place on May 7, when Harris was reported stumbling out of a SuperTarget towards her car with her children. When the police arrived, an employee at the store pointed out Harris as she was driving away.  The police followed her, and saw the vehicle swerve several times before pulling her over. According to the police, Harris also made a wide turn into oncoming traffic.

If convicted of the charges, Harris could face imprisonment, fines, license suspension, mandatory DUI classes, and more.

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