Man gets probation for DUI probation violation

A man who violated the terms of his probation for driving under the influence received a new term of probation this week, according to the Kootenai County Prosecuting Attorney's Office.

Thomas W. Torgerson, 53, pleaded guilty last year to felony driving under the influence.

First District Judge Barbara Duggan sentenced Torgerson at that time to 10 years in prison with parole eligibility after five years. Duggan then suspended the prison sentence, placed Torgerson on probation for four years and suspended his driver's license.

The charge stemmed from September 2024, when prosecutors said Torgerson was arrested for driving under the influence and provided breath samples that showed a breath alcohol concentration of 0.27.

In January, Torgerson was arrested for allegedly violating the terms of his probation. Prosecutors said Torgerson failed to provide required breath samples, consumed alcohol and drove on a suspended license. He spent 60 days in an inpatient treatment program, according to the prosecutor's office.

First District Judge Regina McCrea found this week that Torgerson had violated the terms of his probation and placed him on a new four-year period of probation, according to the prosecutor's office, under the condition that he complete inpatient treatment and follow up with six additional months of outpatient treatment.

The North Idaho Crisis Center at 2301 Ironwood Place in Coeur d’Alene offers free, confidential help for people who are having substance abuse problems or a mental health crisis.

The center is open 24/7. No referral is necessary. Call 208-625-4884.