‘RHOP’ Karen Huger Reportedly Completes Out-Of-State Rehab Stint Amid Postponed Sentencing
By Afouda Bamidele on January 29, 2025 at 11:00 AM EST
Updated on January 29, 2025 at 11:03 AM EST
Karen Huger is homebound after a stint in out-of-state rehab after being granted a brief reprieve in her legal case.
This comes after the "Real Housewives of Potomac" star's request to delay her January 29 sentencing was approved, offering her a temporary break following her guilty verdict in December.
Karen Huger was convicted of DUI and DWI charges stemming from a March 2024 incident in which she crashed her Maserati into a pole in Montgomery County, Maryland.
Karen Huger Completes Rehab Program While Preparing For DUI Sentencing
Huger is gearing up for her DUI sentencing with a fresh legal team after completing an out-of-state rehab program. The reality TV star was reportedly set to return home on Tuesday, January 28, just a day before her scheduled sentencing.
Huger enlisted two new attorneys, David Martella and Barry Helfand, to represent her during this critical time.
The pair had filed a request to postpone the January 29 sentencing, citing their need to catch up on the case after Huger entered the "out-of-state" rehab program, which they described as "appropriate" for her situation.
In Touch reported that her lawyers also noted that the rules of the program made communication difficult, and they could not fully prepare with their client before her return.
While they did not disclose the nature of the program, they confirmed that Huger's decision to seek private recovery was fully supported.
'The Real Housewives Of Potomac' Star Got A Delay In DUI Sentencing
View this post on Instagram
Before finalizing her flight home, Huger's request to delay her January 29 sentencing was granted, providing her with a brief reprieve to focus on her out-of-state rehab program, despite her guilty conviction.
The 61-year-old, who was convicted on DUI charges, now has until February 26 to prepare for her day in court. The Blast reported that Huger made the strategic move of replacing her previous attorneys with seasoned lawyers David A. Martella and Barry Helfand.
The pair emphasized the importance of this extension, citing the need for adequate time to represent Huger's case properly. With the additional time, Huger can now work closely with her new legal team to ensure she is fully prepared for her upcoming sentencing.
The TV Personality Scored Delay But Lost Bid To Block Bodycam Footage
View this post on Instagram
Huger may have secured a win by gaining a delay in her DUI sentencing, but she faced a setback in her legal battle when her attempt to block crucial bodycam footage was denied.
The star, who was arrested after authorities suspected her of driving under the influence, has been dealing with charges ranging from negligent driving to endangering life and property.
Ahead of her trial, Huger sought to suppress bodycam footage and statements made to police at the scene, arguing that she was unlawfully detained and interrogated without being read her Miranda Rights.
However, prosecutors countered that her statements were made voluntarily, and the judge ultimately ruled in their favor, allowing the footage to be presented as evidence in her DUI case.
Police Footage Reveals Troubling Details Of The DUI Case
View this post on Instagram
Released police footage provided a damning look at Huger's state following her crash in Potomac, shedding light on her behavior and demeanor after the incident.
The Blast reported that the footage captured Huger slurring her speech and struggling to keep her balance after crashing into a pole near Oaklyn Drive. An EMT on the scene noted that Huger "swayed on her feet, refused treatment, and verbally lashed out at first responders."
Her husband, Raymond Huger, arrived shortly after, attempting to shield her from further questioning. When officers asked about the accident, Huger initially denied details, while Raymond claimed she had consumed just "a couple of beers."
The footage also included a moment at the police station, where Huger stumbled from the police cruiser and exclaimed, "I'm lit!" to which the officer responded, "You are lit."
Karen Huger's Thoughts On Guilty Verdict
Despite receiving a guilty verdict, Huger shared her disappointment of the court's decision. Along with DUI, the real housewife star was found guilty of several offenses, including negligent driving, reckless endangerment, and driving with a suspended registration.
The charges also included failure to control vehicle speed to avoid a collision and driving at an unreasonable speed, among others. Per The Blast, Huger's attorney, A. Scott Bolden, issued a statement following the verdict, expressing disappointment but maintaining a strong stance on seeking justice.
"Although we are disappointed in the jury's verdict, we, of course, respect their decision and appreciate their time hearing our case. We continue to reserve Mrs. Huger's right to an appeal and intend to fully pursue justice on her behalf," Bolden stated.
With her scheduled return, Karen Huger and her new legal team now have the opportunity to concentrate on preparing for her upcoming sentencing.