Karen Huger STAYS Behind Bars After Judge Denies Work Release in DUI Case!
Karen Huger’s request for work release during her one-year DUI sentence has been officially denied.
The 61-year-old Real Housewives of Potomac star had applied for a transfer to a rehabilitation-focused facility, a move that was approved by corrections officials. However, the final decision rested with Judge Terrence McGann—who opted to reject the request.
“She drew the wrong judge,” Montgomery County defense attorney David Moyse told The Washington Post on April 18. “It was just horrible luck.”
Judge McGann, who is known for his tough stance in DUI cases, issued a “disapproval of transfer,” blocking Karen from entering the Montgomery County Pre-Release Center. While such transfers are typically granted to non-violent offenders seeking treatment, Karen’s request didn’t pass judicial review. “I love Judge McGann. And as a resident of Montgomery County I am happy he’s a judge,” David Moyse added. “But I am even happier if my clients never end up in front of him.”
Karen’s attorney, David Martella, explained that although limited treatment is available in jail, the transfer would have significantly improved her access to recovery resources.
“It’s a great program,” Martella said. “We were disappointed she wasn’t approved.”
The pre-release program would have allowed Karen to search for employment online, provided the job had no connection to alcohol and didn’t involve any filming—essentially ruling out any possibility of appearing on RHOP while incarcerated. She also would have been placed on a structured schedule that included mandatory Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous meetings, as well as other recovery courses.
“Anyone who is really looking to make a change will do well here,” added Ivan Downing, head of community corrections for Montgomery County.
During the Real Housewives of Potomac season nine reunion, fellow castmate Gizelle Bryant revealed that Karen had previously been offered a plea deal that would have resulted in house arrest rather than jail time. Karen ultimately declined and opted for a court trial.
With four prior DUI charges on her record, Karen’s decision proved costly. She was sentenced to 12 months in jail and a minimum of three years on supervised probation. While the judge’s denial may seem harsh to some, experts say it was a reasonable move given the circumstances.
“Just looking at all the facts of this case,” said Stacey D. Stewart, CEO of Mothers Against Drunk Driving, “I think the judge was trying to send a message that this person’s behavior needed to change.”
Although Karen won’t be granted work release, she’s still eligible for good behavior credits. If she continues on her current path, she’s expected to be released from jail in November.
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Olivia Davis is a Staff Writer at All About The Tea. Olivia’s hobbies include binging Netflix series, and watching Housewives on Bravo. She graduated from San Francisco State University with a degree in History.
