Bettendorf man pleads guilty to charges in multiple crashes

The Bettendorf man accused of driving under the influence and striking a box office post, fire hydrant, telephone pole and another car last month has pleaded guilty to the charges, according to court records.

James J. Bennett was arrested in July on charges related to driving at least 50 mph in a 25 mph zone. Officers said when they encountered him, they could smell alcohol and noted that Bennett has slurred speech and bloodshot eyes. A breath sample showed he had a .217 blood alcohol content. The legal limit nationwide is .08.

Bennett entered a guilty plea on July 31. A presentence investigation has been ordered and he will be sentenced on December 19.

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