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Tragic Loss of Life on BIA Hwy 27

A devastating DUI crash on August 31, 2012, took the life of a 4-year-old boy in Porcupine, South Dakota. Grimy Times reports that Elizabeth Red Star-Benson, 27, was behind the wheel with a blood alcohol content of .261 when her vehicle rolled on BIA Hwy 27 near KILI radio station. Unfortunately, her unrestrained child was ejected and succumbed to fatal injuries on the scene.

Red Star-Benson, also known as Elizabeth Shantelle Benson and Elizabeth Red Star, was sentenced to 5 years of imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release on January 10, 2014. Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken handed down the punishment in U.S. District Court.

The consequences of Red Star-Benson’s actions extend beyond her own punishment. The tragedy has left a lasting impact on the community, and a $100 special assessment was ordered to be paid to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The investigation into the crash was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins successfully prosecuted the case.

Red Star-Benson was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following the sentencing. This incident serves as a harsh reminder of the dangers of drunk driving and the importance of responsible parenting.

Our thoughts go out to the family and loved ones of the young victim. May this tragic loss serve as a catalyst for increasing awareness about the devastating consequences of DUI and the importance of prioritizing road safety.

Grimy Times will continue to monitor this case and provide updates as necessary. In the meantime, we urge readers to share this heartbreaking story with others to prevent further tragedies.