"Real Housewives of Potomac" star Gizelle Bryant was left "utterly shaken" upon learning of her co-star Karen Huger's one-year prison sentence. Speaking at the Gizelle 21 Shady Questions Live event on Wednesday, Bryant revealed her reaction to Huger's sentencing, as reported by Us Weekly. "This just transpired today," she said, her voice tinged with concern. "I do not possess her wigs, but in all honesty, I am deeply worried about her well-being. Karen is simply not suited for the rigors of jail life." The 54-year-old Bryant added, "I offer my prayers that she remains well and that the Lord watches over her."
Earlier that day, Huger had faced a hearing in Montgomery County, Md., where she was handed down a two-year prison term, with one year suspended. This meant that the Bravolebrity would only spend one year incarcerated. Huger, an original cast member of "RHOP," has 30 days to file an appeal against her sentence.
According to the Baltimore Banner, Huger was visibly emotional during the hearing. Addressing the judge, the 61-year-old reflected, "I now grasp with stark clarity that when you're behind the wheel, you're not just driving for yourself. It's my duty to ensure the safety of my fellow community members." Montgomery County Circuit Court Judge Terrence McGann noted Huger's four driving violations since 2006, questioning, "Should we believe that she has only driven under the influence four times in the past 17 years, or has she been unusually fortunate in evading detection?"
In December 2024, Huger was convicted of DUI. Following a March 2024 incident where she crashed her 2017 Maserati, she was found guilty on five out of six charges, including driving under the influence, negligent driving, failure to control speed, and neglecting to notify authorities of an address change.
At the time of her conviction, Huger's lawyer, A. Scott Bolden, issued a statement to Us Weekly, expressing disappointment but respect for the jury's verdict. "We continue to uphold Mrs. Huger's right to appeal and are committed to seeking justice on her behalf. We are grateful for your support and prayers for Mrs. Huger and her family during this challenging period," Bolden said.
Prior to Wednesday's sentencing, Huger's legal team had vigorously advocated for rehabilitation as an alternative to incarceration. Notably, Huger had opted to enter rehab, prompting her absence from the "RHOP" Season 9 reunion taping last month.
