Continuing the Crook County News Since 1884

Nebraska man sentenced for felony DUI

A Nebraska man has been given a suspended sentence on a felony count of driving while under the influence after being stopped by law enforcement on the interstate for driving over the posted speed limit.

On June 23, 2022, Benjamin Osborne’s truck was pulled over by a Crook County Sheriff’s Office deputy on I-90 near milepost 200 after being observed traveling at an estimated 97 mph in an 80 mph zone. The truck was also allegedly driving over the fog line and into the oncoming lane of travel.

Osborne allegedly appeared to be very intoxicated, with red and glassy eyes, slow motor function in his hands and slurred speech. According to court reports, he was not able to stand without aid after exiting the truck and had difficulty walking.

The ignition interlock device in his truck was also found to not be operational.

Osborne was charged with a fourth or subsequent count of driving while under the influence, with known prior offenses between 2014 and 2017 in Kansas and Nebraska. He was also charged with a misdemeanor count of driving with a cancelled, suspended or revoked license.

Osborne pled guilty to the felony count, in return for which the misdemeanor was dismissed. He was given a sentence of between four and five years of imprisonment, suspended pending the successful completion of four years of supervised probation.