Illinois detective enters guilty plea in fatal car crash
On behalf of of Frederick & Hagle posted in Car Accidents on Thursday, September 20, 2012.
An Illinois police detective has pleaded guilty in a car crash that led to the death of two young men. The car crash occurred when the off-duty detective collided with a disabled vehicle. He recently entered a guilty plea for aggravated driving under the influence.
The man was also charged with reckless homicide, but that charge was later dismissed. After the man pleaded guilty, a bench trial began based upon charges that the detective had left the scene of the fatal accident. Reports state the man’s blood-alcohol level at the time of the crash was allegedly over three times the legal limit.
Following the crash, the man was helped out of his vehicle by someone passing by the scene of the accident. However, when the officer attempted to leave the scene, he was apprehended within a short period of time. Chicago police have reported that the officer resigned from his position last month. Reports are unclear on exactly how many deaths occurred in this crash or if there were any other injuries.
The guilty plea will likely result in some type of punishment for this Illinois man. However, the families of the victims in this car crash case may have additional legal options available to them. The guilty plea could also help bolster any claims the families may make of negligence on the driver’s part. If they elect to pursue a wrongful death claim, they could potentially be awarded a monetary judgment which can include money for pain and suffering, medical expenses and funeral expenses. Although it won’t change the events of that day, it could help send a tough message to the driver and others who may get behind the wheel after drinking.
Source: MyFox Chicago, “Chicago officer pleads guilty in fatal DUI crash,” Sept. 7, 2012
