Henderson County — On Thursday, Doyle Wayne Brewer, 51, of Longview plead guilty to his seventh Driving While Intoxicated offense. As a result, he will serve a twenty-five year prison sentence. The sentencing took place in the 173rd Judicial District Court with Judge Dan Moore presiding. Assistant District Attorney Justin Weiner prosecuted the case on behalf of Scott McKee's District Attorney Office.

"Henderson County roads are safer today as a result of this plea." Stated Justin Weiner. He attributed the long sentence to vigorous prosecution policies by Scott McKee's District Attorney's Office. Weiner continued by stating: "[W]e really dug in here and used every prior conviction we could to enhance Brewer's minimum punishment as much as the law would allow. It is really important that we keep people like Brewer behind bars and away from vehicles for as long as possible."

The charge was a result of a two vehicle collision involving the Brewer and one other person. Though his blood alcohol content was nearly twice the legal limit, neither the defendant nor the other party was injured. Trooper Joe Gomez and Malakoff Police Department Officer Kevin Adair investigated the collision. Brewer, driving a 1990 Chevrolet Corsica, rear-ended another driver while traveling on Highway 31 just west of Athens.

It was almost immediately apparent to the officers involved that Brewer was intoxicated. While he attempted to answer questions, he swayed while trying to stand and smelled of alcohol. After performing very poorly on field sobriety tests, Brewer refused to answer questions or cooperate with the officers. As a result of his prior DWI convictions, Trooper Gomez was able to secure a mandatory blood draw, even though Brewer refused to comply. Lab results from the blood draw confirmed that Brewer was indeed intoxicated, with a blood alcohol content of .15. The legal limit in Texas is .08.

McKee, who received the Mothers Against Drunk Drivers Difference Maker of the Year Award in 2010, commended the work of law enforcement and his office for getting Brewer behind bars. "I hope this sentence sends the message that we in Henderson County will vigorously prosecute driving while intoxicated offenses. Our office will continue to work with law enforcement agencies in our county to ensure that our streets are safe from people like Brewer."