A drunk driving arrest alone can cause several complications and challenges for Tennessee residents, even if no conviction ever results. If ultimately convicted, many factors can exacerbate the potential penalties a person may face. The presence of minor children in a car at the time of an arrest, a crash and more are some examples of things that may increase the consequences for those accused of driving while impaired.
In April of 2014, a man in his 20s unfortunately experienced an accident after which he was indicted by a grand jury for multiple criminal offenses including a felony murder charge. Reports indicate that the man had consumed a large quantity of beer over the course of the day – as much as 100 ounces. He was going out to purchase more alcohol when he crashed.
In addition to himself, there were four children in the vehicle at the time. One of the kids died in the wreck. The other three were injured. The relationship of the children to the driver is not known. He has since been convicted of vehicular assault, vehicular homicide and aggravated neglect. His prison sentence has been ordered for 24 years. It is not known what his sentence would have been if he had been convicted of all offenses originally indicted for.
Situations like these are tragic for everyone involved. Drivers who are involved in motor vehicle accidents involving alcohol may find it helpful to talk to an attorney to learn about their options for a criminal defense.
Source: WREG, “Man gets 24 years in prison for DUI car crash that killed child,” Kelsey Ott, July 26, 2016
