A Priest River man will serve up to 8 years in prison for his seventh DUI conviction.

Gary Trotter, 53, whose blood-alcohol level of 3.10, which is nearly four times the legal limit, will serve at least 3 years of his sentence.

Bonners Ferry police on Nov. 9 arrested Trotter.

This conviction is his fourth felony DUI. He has a history of DUI charges dating back to 1994.

Judge Steve Verby on Tuesday told Trotter he will have to complete an intense alcohol rehabilitation program while in prison before he can be released.

“Alcoholism is a disease and some people are powerless to overcome alcoholism,” Verby said. “The decision to consume alcohol and drive is not an addiction, it is a choice.”

Trotter apologized to the court for the time and money his actions caused.

Trotter will also pay $1,200 in courts cost and fines.