Retrial for NFL's Darion Conner in DUI Manslaughter Case
Darion Conner will get a retrial. Thus ruled a judge 3 years after Conner was originally sentenced to 15 years for DUI manslaughter and vehicular homicide charges stemming from a 2004 accident. An appeals court ruled that Conner should be retried because a judge improperly showed a photograph of the victim to the jury.
Conner's blood alcohol level at the time of the crash was 0.27, more than three times the legal level. In California, the legal limit is 0.08.
And, during the trial, a toxicologist said Conner likely consumed 16 to 21 drinks before he got behind the wheel and subsequently hit and killed bicyclist Jonathan Michael Conklin in September 2004.
The accident was Conner's seventh arrest and fifth conviction for DUI. At the first trial, the judge revoked Conner’s driving privileges for life.
Vehicular Manslaughter Law in California
In California, gross vehicular manslaughter is punishable by immediate license suspension and significant jail time, from 15 years to life.
If you have 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in your blood, you will be charged with driving under the influence or DUI if apprehended. You could face a fine and jail time if convicted.
Darion Conner, Wikipedia.com, September 18, 2008.
Football Player Gets 15 Years in Prison, St. Petersburg Times, July 15, 2005.
More Web Resources
Vehicular Manslaughter Laws in California
California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence
California DMV on what happens when you’re arrested for DUI
If you have been arrested and charged with DUI in San Diego county, then trust your case to an experienced San Diego criminal defense attorney. Attorney Victor A. Orsatti will explain your legal options during a free consultation.
