Former Annapolis Police Officer Indicted for DUI and Manslaughter
A 52-year-old former Annapolis police officer is facing charges for drunk driving and manslaughter due to his involvement in a crash that killed a 19-year-old man. The officer, who worked for the Baltimore and Annapolis police departments, is also charged with speeding and running a red light. He resigned from the Annapolis Police Department on August 1, 2011.
According to The Baltimore Sun, the accident occurred on October 3, 2010, at the intersection of Patapsco Avenue and Potee Street, where the off-duty officer was driving his personal vehicle. During the crash, a passenger was ejected from the vehicle and later died as a result of his injuries.
Manslaughter refers to the killing of a human being, but the charge differs from a homicide based on intent. Someone charged with manslaughter did not necessarily intend to kill the victim or create a deadly situation, while someone who committed homicide generally intended to kill or knew that his or her actions would result in the death of the victim. A Maryland manslaughter conviction carries a maximum prison term of 10 years.
Because manslaughter is such a serious charge, hiring an experienced Maryland criminal defense lawyer is one of the best things you can do to protect your rights. Law enforcement officers sometimes make mistakes that could change the outcome of your case. An experienced attorney can review police reports, witness statements, accident reports and other documents to determine the best way to defend you against this charge.
If you are facing a manslaughter charge in Maryland, contact the Maryland criminal defense attorneys at Alpert Schreyer. Call us at 1-866-444-6363 or 301-262-7005 for a no-obligation evaluation of your case.
