A 23-year-old man is facing three murder charges after being criminally charged for a DUI accident in Los Angeles that claimed the life of an Angels pitcher and two others, the Associated Press reported.
As veteran Los Angeles drunk driving defense lawyers, our hearts certainly go out to the victims in such tragic cases. But the charges of second-degree murder filed by prosecutors is just another example of the ever-increasing penalties being sought by the state in an increasing number of cases. The only defense is an aggressive offense or it is very likely that the state will ensure that the driver's life is destroyed because of a horrible mistake -- as if someone wins if everyone loses. Too often, the judges believe such harsh penalties satisfy the public and are only too happy to comply.
In cases with a high-profile victim or intense media focus, it is even more likely the state will seek to make an example of a defendant. An aggressive and experienced law firm should be called as soon as possible to manage the case in both the criminal court and the court of public opinion.
The 23-year-old defendant is standing trial for the death of Los Angeles Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart and two other victims, ages 20 and 25. He faces three counts of second-degree murder as well as hit and run and two other alcohol-related felonies. Prosecutors say he was intoxicated when he ran a red light and T-boned a car containing the three victims and a fourth occupant. He is also accused of fleeing the scene; police found him traveling on the shoulder of the road several miles away.
His defense attorney argued that the state had not proven the defendant was driving. Typically, in DUI accident cases, a defense will attack the state's case on two fronts: That the defendant was intoxicated and that he or she was responsible for causing the accident. If the state fails to prove either allegations, a reduction or dismissal of the case is possible.
Prosecutors elected to go with the murder charges because the defendant had a previous conviction for drunk driving. The escalating penalties for repeat violations of California's drunk driving law is another reason why an experienced defense lawyer should always be called to represent a client facing DUI in Los Angeles. We also think a DUI conviction on your record makes it more likely that you will be targeted for a future stop by law enforcement.
If you have been charged with Drunk Driving in Los Angeles, contact Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney Stephen G. Rodriguez for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights.
