Karen Huger, affectionately known as the “Grande Dame” of The Real Housewives of Potomac, has been convicted on five of six charges related to a March car crash in Potomac, Maryland.
The 61-year-old reality TV icon was found guilty of DUI and other charges, and with sentencing set for January 29, she could face up to two years behind bars.
The charges stem from a March incident in which Huger was reportedly involved in a car crash on March 19, 2024, that led to an extensive investigation. Huger allegedly drove her Maserati into a pole near Oaklyn Drive. Witness testimony and body camera footage presented during the trial, which climaxed this Wednesday, vividly depicted the incident, leaving fans and followers of the Bravo star in shock.
At the hearing, a paramedic testified that Huger swayed while standing, denied receiving medical assistance, and shouted insults at the emergency responders. Body camera recordings also captured Huger slurring her words and insulting the officers, rejecting a breathalyzer test, and opting out of a field sobriety assessment.
Huger’s legal team brought in two witnesses, one of whom was her cousin, to state that while Huger was experiencing emotional distress, she did not seem impaired during their phone conversation just before the accident.
The prosecution maintained that Huger’s actions, as seen in body camera footage and supported by witness accounts, clearly indicated signs of intoxication.
Huger’s lawyers had earlier requested to throw out the case, arguing that the evidence was acquired through an unlawful search and seizure, but the request was rejected.
On Wednesday, a jury in Maryland found Karen Huger, recognized as the Grand Dame, guilty of DUI, negligent driving, not controlling her speed to prevent an accident, and failing to inform authorities of a change of address. She was found not guilty of the sixth charge, which was reckless driving.
In an exclusive statement to PEOPLE, Huger’s attorney, A. Scott Bolden, expressed disappointment at the outcome. “Although we are disappointed in the jury’s verdict, we, of course, respect their decision and appreciate their time hearing our case,” Bolden said.
The high-profile attorney, a Reed Smith law firm partner, also hinted at potential next steps, saying, “We continue to reserve Mrs. Huger’s right to an appeal and intend to fully pursue justice on her behalf. We appreciate your support and prayers for Mrs. Huger and her family at this time.”
While Karen Huger has yet to publicly comment, fans rally behind her on social media, offering prayers and words of encouragement during this challenging time.
