MOSINEE, Wis. — A 49-year-old Mosinee man with a long history of Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) convictions was arrested again on May 9, 2025, after allegedly driving into a ditch in Marathon County. Authorities confirmed the man now faces a felony sixth-offense OWI charge under Wisconsin law.

The Marathon County Sheriff’s Department responded to a report of a vehicle off the road on Thursday. When deputies arrived, they found the driver—identified as Steffen—exhibiting visible signs of intoxication. Field sobriety tests reportedly indicated impairment, leading to his immediate arrest.

A History of Repeat Offenses

According to court records reviewed by Wausau Pilot & Review, Steffen’s OWI history spans over two decades. His first conviction dates back to 1999, followed by offenses in 2004, two separate OWIs in 2010, and his most recent prior conviction in 2020.

Under Wisconsin law, a sixth OWI offense is classified as a Class G felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a $25,000 fine, and revocation of the driver’s license for at least two years. The law also mandates the installation of an ignition interlock device upon reinstatement of driving privileges.

Details of the Incident

The crash took place on a rural roadway in Marathon County. A 911 caller reported that a vehicle had veered off the road and appeared to have landed in a ditch. Responding officers said the vehicle was damaged, but no other vehicles or individuals were involved in the incident.

Steffen reportedly failed standard field sobriety tests and was taken into custody without further incident. Blood was drawn for further testing to determine his blood alcohol content (BAC), which authorities have not yet released publicly.

Legal Ramifications and Public Safety Concerns

Steffen made his initial court appearance the day after the arrest. The judge set a cash bond and ordered the suspect not to operate a motor vehicle. If convicted, he could face significant prison time due to the repeat-offender nature of the case.

Public safety advocates have long emphasized the dangers of repeat OWI offenders, especially those with a documented pattern spanning years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one-third of all drivers arrested or convicted of drunk driving are repeat offenders.

“This arrest is a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of impaired driving and the need for strong enforcement and rehabilitation measures,” said a spokesperson from the Marathon County Sheriff’s Office. “While we are relieved that no one was injured, the risk to public safety remains high.”

Statewide Efforts to Reduce Impaired Driving

Wisconsin has one of the highest rates of drunk driving in the country, according to a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In response, state lawmakers have implemented stricter penalties for repeat offenders and expanded treatment options.

In recent years, programs such as the 24/7 Sobriety Program and OWI Treatment Courts have shown promise in reducing repeat offenses. These court-monitored programs emphasize rehabilitation, frequent alcohol testing, and accountability for high-risk individuals.

Community Reaction and Looking Ahead

Local residents have expressed concern over the frequency with which some offenders return to the road. “It’s frightening to think that someone with five OWIs can still end up behind the wheel,” said one Mosinee resident. “We need stricter measures to keep our roads safe.”

The case is currently under review by the Marathon County District Attorney’s Office. Additional charges may be added depending on the results of toxicology tests and any aggravating factors identified during the investigation.

As of now, Steffen remains in custody awaiting further court proceedings. His next scheduled court date has not yet been made public.

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