What is an enhanced penalty for a DC DUI?

When certain pieces of evidence exist in a case, District of Columbia law requires an enhanced penalty.  The evidence must be stated in the complaint for the enhanced sentence to occur.  The most common sentence enhancer is a previous DWI conviction or similar offense within 15 years of the new charge.  Causing serious injury or death to a person will result in felony DWI charges.

The more common sentence enhancers:

1. The suspect was driving 20 MPH above the posted speed limit
2. A child age 17 or younger was present in the vehicle (incurring an additional $500-$1000 fine and 48-80 hours of community service benefitting children)
3. Personal injury or property damage occurred
4. The suspect’s blood-alcohol concentration was over .20%
5. The suspect is under 21 years old