by A Wisconsin woman has been sentenced to a decade behind bars for killing her husband while driving intoxicated in 2023. The disturbing case included witness reports of the victim being dragged under the vehicle for nearly 50 feet.
What Happened
Mary Terry, 50, pleaded guilty to homicide by intoxicated driving in the death of her husband, Donald Britten Jr. The incident occurred on October 19, 2023, in Wisconsin.
At the time of the fatal event, Terry had a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.298 — more than four times the legal limit. She struck Britten with her truck, dragging him 48 feet across pavement before running him over again.
Key Details
According to a criminal complaint, neighbors described hearing a “prolonged thud” followed by a rhythmic “doo doo, doo doo” sound — reminiscent of a vehicle hitting speed bumps.
Prosecutor Alexander Seifert vividly illustrated in court the 48-foot distance that Britten’s body was dragged. He emphasized the severity of the injuries by comparing the effects of concrete on human skin to dragging a finger across a cheese grater.
Though originally charged with first-degree intentional homicide, Terry ultimately accepted a plea deal and was convicted of homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle.
Reactions or Statements
During sentencing, Seifert argued that Terry’s actions posed a threat to public safety and sought the maximum sentence of 15 years.
Defense attorney Kelli Sue Thompson acknowledged Terry’s responsibility but highlighted her client’s long-term struggle with alcoholism — worsened by the death of her son in a car accident.
Terry, who did not speak during the hearing, had a written statement read aloud. “I would never have intentionally hurt Donnie,” she wrote, calling him the love of her life.
Another defense attorney, Albert Moustakis, argued that her level of intoxication made the crime unintentional.
Judge’s Decision
Judge Michael Schiek sentenced Terry to 10 years in prison and 10 years of extended supervision.
While acknowledging the emotional complexities of the case, Judge Schiek rejected intoxication as a viable defense. He emphasized that the fatal incident would not have occurred if Terry had not been under the influence.
Terry was also ordered to pay restitution and is not eligible for early release through treatment programs.
FAQs
What was Mary Terry charged with?
She was charged with homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle after initially facing a first-degree intentional homicide charge.
How intoxicated was Mary Terry during the incident?
Her blood-alcohol level was 0.298 — over four times the legal limit.
How far was the victim dragged?
Donald Britten Jr. was dragged 48 feet under Terry’s vehicle before being run over again.
What sentence did the judge impose?
Terry received 10 years in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release.
Is early release possible for Terry?
No. She is not eligible for a treatment-based early release and must serve at least 8 years in prison.
Summary / Final Takeaway
The tragic case of Mary Terry underscores the devastating impact of alcohol-impaired driving. Though Terry claimed she never meant to hurt her husband, the court ruled that her extreme intoxication led to irreversible consequences.
She will now serve a decade in prison, a sobering reminder of how impaired judgment can lead to fatal outcomes.
