San Diego Man Involved in Fatal DUI Crash Pleads Not Guilty
In San Diego, a man suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol pleaded not guilty to DUI charges and gross vehicular manslaughter after he smashed his SUV into a car that was parked along the shoulder of a San Diego freeway killing a pregnant woman and critically injuring two others.
Joseph Anthony Venegas, who entered a not guilty plea in court, has no San Diego DUI priors is being held on $300,000 bail. The 40 year old is being charged with one count of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, as well as two counts of DUI causing injury. Venegas has not been charged in the death of the unborn child.
The 21 year old victim, Elaina Luquis-Ortiz, who was 6 months pregnant died at the scene of the crash that occurred on New Year’s Day. The two other victims were taken to San Diego’s Scripps Mercy Hospital where they were treated for severe injuries.
Venegas, whose blood alcohol level was more than three times the legal limit could be facing 16 years and eight months if convicted of the fatal San Diego DUI crash.
Man Pleads Not Guilty In Crash That Killed Pregnant Woman, 10News.com, January 13, 2010
Man Charged In DUI Crash That Killed Pregnant Woman, 10News.com, January 6, 2010
Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County
Driving under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug in California is against the law.
If you have 0.08 percent or more by weight, of alcohol in your blood, you will be charged with a DUI if apprehended. You could be facing fines and jail time if convicted.
Web Related Resources
California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence
If you have been arrested and charged with a DUI in San Diego County, then trust your case to an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer. San Diego DUI attorney Victor A. Orsatti will explain all of your legal options during a free consultation.
