Penalties for OWI Child Endangerment

The sentence for OWI child endangerment depends on the number of prior drunk-driving convictions on your criminal record. In general, the punishment for transporting a minor is double what it would be for a standard OWI charge. For example, a standard first OWI offense is punishable by a $150-$300 fine and six- to nine-month license revocation, with no jail time required. However, if this is your first offense and you’re charged with child endangerment, you could be sentenced to $350-$1,000 in fines, a 12- to 18-month license revocation, and five days to six months in jail.

If arrested for a second OWI offense within 10 years of the first while transporting a minor, the sentence is increased to $700-$2,200 in fines, a two- to three-year license revocation, and 10 days to 12 months in jail. The penalties continue to get even harsher from here. If convicted of a fourth OWI offense within five years of the last (a Class H Felony), you could be sentenced to $1,200-$20,000 in fines, a four- to six-year license revocation, and one to 12 years behind bars.

The sentence imposed by the court is just one part of the consequences you may face as a result of an OWI child endangerment conviction. Because your criminal record is accessible by third parties, this could hurt you when applying for employment or a professional license.