Karen Huger, an original star of ‘The Real Housewives of Potomac,’ has been sentenced to one year in prison. The sentencing occurred on Wednesday in Montgomery County, Maryland, following her conviction for a DUI and other driving offenses stemming from a car crash in March 2024. The news has sent shockwaves through the reality TV community, with co-stars and fans reacting to the court’s decision.
Gizelle Bryant Reacts: ‘I am Concerned for Her Safety’
Co-star Gizelle Bryant was one of the first to publicly comment on the sentencing. During her Gizelle 21 Shady Questions Live event, she expressed genuine shock and worry for her castmate. “This just happened today,” Bryant told the audience, confirming she was processing the news in real-time.
Bryant, 54, emphasized that her concern was serious and not for show. “In all seriousness, I am concerned for her safety. Karen ain’t cut out for jail,” she stated. She added that she was praying for Huger and hoped “the Lord is with her” during this challenging period.
The Charges That Led to a Prison Sentence
Huger’s legal issues began after she crashed her 2017 Maserati in March 2024. The incident resulted in several charges, and she was ultimately found guilty of five out of six counts in December. The conviction has now led to a two-year sentence, with one of those years suspended.
The specific charges included:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Negligent driving
- Failure to control speed
- Failure to notify authorities of an address change
During the hearing, Judge Terrence McGann highlighted Huger’s driving record. He noted her four prior driving violations since 2006, questioning whether this was a one-time mistake or part of a larger pattern of behavior. Huger reportedly showed remorse in court, acknowledging her responsibility to ensure the safety of others on the road.
Court Rejects Rehab in Favor of Jail Time
Huger’s legal team had pushed for a sentence focused on rehabilitation rather than incarceration. They pointed to her recent efforts to seek treatment, which included checking into a rehab facility and skipping the RHOP Season 9 reunion. This move was seen by some as a strategic part of her legal defense.
However, the court decided that prison time was necessary. Her attorney, A. Scott Bolden, expressed disappointment with the verdict but confirmed their plan to appeal the decision. He stated they “intend to fully pursue justice on her behalf,” signaling that the legal battle is not over. Huger has 30 days to file the appeal.
An Uncertain Future for the ‘Grand Dame’ on RHOP
With a one-year prison sentence looming, Karen Huger’s future on ‘The Real Housewives of Potomac’ is now in question. As a founding cast member since 2016, her absence would significantly impact the show’s dynamic. Sources have indicated that Bravo is closely watching the legal proceedings to determine how to move forward.
This situation is not unique within the ‘Real Housewives’ universe. Jen Shah from ‘The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City’ is currently serving a prison sentence for fraud. For now, Huger’s role in the upcoming season remains unclear as her appeal process gets underway, leaving fans and cast members to wonder what will happen next.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Karen Huger sentenced to prison?
Karen Huger was sentenced to one year in prison after being convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), negligent driving, and other traffic violations related to a car crash in March 2024.
How long is Karen Huger’s prison sentence?
She received a two-year sentence, but one year was suspended. This means she is expected to serve one year behind bars unless her appeal is successful.
Can Karen Huger appeal the court’s decision?
Yes, her legal team has stated their intention to appeal the verdict. She has a 30-day window to formally file the appeal.
How did her co-star Gizelle Bryant react to the news?
Gizelle Bryant said she was “shook” and expressed serious concern for Huger’s safety in prison, stating, “Karen ain’t cut out for jail.” She also said she was praying for her.
Will Karen Huger be in the next season of RHOP?
Her future on ‘The Real Housewives of Potomac’ is currently uncertain. Production company Bravo is reportedly monitoring the situation as her legal proceedings, including a potential appeal, continue.
