Rancho Bernardo Teen is Sentenced After Fatal DUI in Poway
A 19-year old crashed his SUV while driving under the influence and killing one of his 5 passengers, after attending a party is sentenced today to almost five years in state prison.
On December 3rd Rancho Bernardo resident Richard Caldwell pleaded guilty to gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and DUI causing injury.
The crash happened last April 10th about 2:30am when Caldwell lost control of his car while DUI and speeding in a residential area of Poway. The car rolled several times before coming to a halt and killing Charles Amaro II. Two other passengers were injured. Caldwell’s blood alcohol level was .12 percent. He was also seriously injured in the crash.
The DUI defense attorney argued for probation and told the court that his client had no prior criminal record and has already suffered greatly because of the loss of his good friend Charles Amaro on his 20th birthday.
Judge David Danielson denied the defense attorneys requests and said that “the message needs to go out to the community that if a motorist drinks and drives and kills or seriously injures someone, there will be consequences.”
The defendant apologized to Amaro’s Family and his mother, stating that he takes full responsibility for what happened.
Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County
In California, it is unlawful for any person to drive a vehicle while under the influence of any kind of alcoholic beverage or drug.
If you have 0.08 percent or more, by weight, blood alcohol level, you will be charged with DUI or driving while intoxicated if arrested. You may face a fine and jail time if convicted.
Teen Sentenced For Fatal DUI Crash, San Diego news 10, March 3, 2009
Web Related Resources
If you have been arrested and charged with a DUI in San Diego County, you need an experienced San Diego DUI Attorney. San Diego DUI lawyer Victor A. Orsatti will fight for your case and will explain all of your legal options in a free consultation.
