On April 25, 2008 Jennifer Bukosky, her unborn daughter Sophie Bukosky and her 10 year old daughter, Courtney Bella, were killed by Mark Benson, who was intoxicated on prescription medication at the time. Just two days before killing Jennifer and her children, Benson received his third OWI conviction.
Last week Benson plead no contest to the charges against him, and he is now awaiting sentencing, yet despite the passage of nearly 14 months since the tragic deaths of Jennifer Bukosky and her children, there has been no meaningful reform of Wisconsin’s drunk driving laws, which are some of the most lenient in the nation. What I’m wondering – and I’m sure I’m not alone – is when the drunk driving reform train is finally going to leave the station?
Thank you for posting on this…Zach. There are a few things that really get my blood boiling and the relaxed OWI laws in WI is one of them. It’s such a no brainer but it appears our legislators are beholden to the Tavern League and not their constituents. It’s interesting…with all the complaining the right does about unions…why don’t they ever speak out against the Tavern League??
Jennifer’s mom (Judy Jenkins) was recently interviewed on the news and she said many of the state’s legislators were supporting stronger OWI laws before their elections but once they were elected and feeling comfortable they turned their backs on this issue. I would love to get a list of names who did this so I know who not to vote for next time around. I already know I won’t vote for JB Van Hollen and I hope to God someone runs against him.
Anon, I’ll just say it’s a shame that lawmakers have only paid lip service to the issue. You’re absolutely right that once elected, a lot seem to get comfortable.