Weaver denies fifth DUI charge

A 40-year-old Ferndale man pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to what would be his fifth offense of drunk driving.

According to a court document, several Flathead County deputies made contact with John Weaver while he was sitting in his still-running pickup truck after responding to a report of a vehicle parked for several minutes in the middle of Ferndale Drive.

The court document alleges that Weaver stumbled out of the vehicle despite being told to remain inside, at which point his passenger opened her door and several beer cans fell out.

The deputies also reported seeing several more cans inside the vehicle.

Weaver allegedly refused field sobriety tests and a breath sample but admitted to having been drinking.

His prior convictions for DUI came in April 1992, August 1992, May 1996 and December 2002.

If convicted, Weaver faces up to five years in prison and a fine of between $1,000 and $10,000. His next hearing is set for July 17.