Collum A Henderson County jury has convicted Candie Marie Collum, 23, of driving while intoxicated in the County Court at Law Number Two of Henderson County.

The verdict comes just a month after two men were sentenced to 15- and 20- year sentences for intoxication manslaughter.

Judge Nancy Perryman presided over the case prosecuted by Assistant County Attorney Cody Cofer.

A sentencing hearing is set for Jan. 5.

"This is one of the last jury trials of the year for us and I am happy to end the year on a high note," County Attorney Clint Davis said.

"With the holidays coming up, I hope this verdict can serve as a reminder to everyone who will be attending Christmas and New Years parties that if they are going to drink, to drink responsibly, and if they are going to drink away from home, that they should have a designated driver."

The County Attorney's Office prosecutes more DWI offenses than any other misdemeanor crime.

According to statistics, the office receives over 35 DWI cases each month. In recent years, Henderson County has had a significant number of alcohol related accidents causing death and injury to innocent victims.

"Before you go out, have a solid plan on who is the designated driver," Davis said. "The costs are too great to not plan ahead."

DWI cases are by far the most difficult cases for the state to meet its burden of proof on as often the evidence is limited to just the peace officer's testimony.

"Although difficult, the public should know that we are going to prosecute these cases, and it will cost you time and money," Davis said. "To date, the County Attorney's Office has tried four times the number of DWI cases as were tried last year before I took office."

"I am pleased with the progress that our office has made in this area and our current efforts to deter people from driving while intoxicated," Davis said.

"I'm grateful for the attorneys in my office and the court support staff for helping to make these improvements. "