Woman sentenced in felony DUI

A Gardnerville woman, who conducted victim impact panels for drunk drivers, was herself sentenced April 4 to 2-5 years in prison for felony DUI.

Monica Claire Hansen, 65, admitted to felony driving under the influence with a prior felony in January.

Hansen’s sentence was the result of negotiations between attorney Maria Pence and the District Attorney’s Office. She was ordered to pay the mandatory minimum fine of $2,000.

Pence said Hansen had PTSD from her military service which contributed to her drinking. 

“She was our representative on the in-person VIP before her lapse,” Pence said.

District Judge Tod Young pointed out that meant she should have known better.

“You’re just a murderer in waiting, if you drink again,” Young said.

It had been almost 16 years since Hansen was convicted of a felony when she was arrested on July 15, 2022, with a .135 blood alcohol content.

She could have faced a maximum of 6-15 years and a $5,000 fine. 

Under Nevada law, any conviction for driving under the influence after a felony DUI is subject to a harsher sentence.