Brenner sentenced to jail for Holcombe crash

Chloe Brenner, 26, Holcombe, was sentenced for her role in a motor vehicle crash that left three people injured, Feb. 12.

Brenner was accused of failing to negotiate a curve while driving in Holcombe, resulting in the vehicle striking a tree in April 2020.

Brenner faced one count of Injury by Intoxicated Use of a Vehicle; three counts of Cause Injury/Operate While Under Influence (1st) (PAC>=0.15); three counts of Cause Injury While Operating with PAC (1st) (PAC>=0.15); and one count of “Class B” or “Class C” Liquor Licensee Violate Closing Hours Rules.

“We do have a plea agreement, your honor,” said defense attorney Glenn White.

White said the agreement provides that Brenner will enter a no contest plea to one count of Cause Injury/ Operate While Under Influence (1st) (PAC>=0.15). White says, as part of the agreement, the other charges will be dismissed and read in, including traffic charges in another case.

“The joint recommendation in this matter is for a 30-day jail sentence, with Huber privilege,” said White.

White also said state representative Lawrence Broeren agreed, that if the jail finds it appropriate, because of the COVID-19 situation, they would not object to electronic monitoring.

As part of the agreement, Brenner also would pay a $1,391 bond, including costs, plus the cost of a blood draw. She would also have a one-year drivers license revocation, and an ignition interlock device placed on her vehicle for one year.

“One thing I did overlook, is we are required to collect for the blood draw, which is $36,” said Broeren.

Judge Steven Gibbs went over the plea questionnaire with Brenner and made sure she understood her rights and what she was giving up by pleaing.

“You understand that I am not bound by this plea agreement?” asked Gibbs. “I can sentence you to the maximum penalties, if I saw fit.”

Gibbs also said he can consider the charges that are dismissed, but read in during sentencing and make her pay restitution on them.

“But the state can never charge you with those specific crimes again,” said Gibbs.

Brenner stated that she wished to plea no contest to the Cause Injury/Operate While Under Influence (1st) (PAC>=0.15) charge. Gibbs accepted the plea and convicted Brenner of the charge.

White says Broeren gave careful consideration.

“It’s a fair resolution under all the circumstances,” said White.

With that in mind, Gibbs decided to follow the agreement, sentencing Brenner to 30 days in the Chippewa County Jail, with Huber, and said the court does not object to electronic monitoring, if Brenner meets the requirements.

“You have 30 days to set up that jail time and start it,” said Gibbs.

Gibbs also said Brenner is to pay a fine of $1,391, plus the cost of the blood draw. Brenner’s drivers license was also revoked for one year, retroactive to any suspension or revocation she has already served, and she is to have an ignition interlock device installed on her vehicle.

Brenner is also to undergo an Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Assessment, and a Driver Safety Plan.

“Good luck to you, ma’am,” said Gibbs.