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Fatal Crash Driver Jody Charles Red Bird Pleads Guilty to Involuntary Manslaughter
South Dakota has seen another tragic incident on its roads, as Jody Charles Red Bird, a 33-year-old from McLaughlin, has pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter. The U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced the guilty plea on January 2, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
According to the indictment, Red Bird stood to face a maximum penalty of 8 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both, and a period of supervised release of 3 years, upon conviction.
The incident occurred on June 12, 2012, when Red Bird and others were drinking alcohol in Timber Lake. They were waiting for work to be done on a vehicle. Following completion of the maintenance, Red Bird and others traveled from Timber Lake to Little Eagle, and eventually decided to drive to McLaughlin. Red Bird was driving the vehicle, and while en route to McLaughlin, he lost control of the vehicle and slid into the ditch abutting the opposing lane of traffic.
The vehicle rolled several times, and both Red Bird and the victim were ejected. As a result of the injuries sustained in the accident, the victim died. At the time of the accident, Red Bird had a blood alcohol concentration over three times the legal limit.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Morley.
A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date was set for April 15, 2013. Red Bird was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending sentencing. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of drinking and driving, and the devastating consequences that can result from such reckless behavior.
Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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