Tiffany Howell, Aggravated Vehicular Manslaughter, NY, 2024

WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NY – A night of reckless abandon allegedly ended in tragedy on January 22nd, and now former NYPD Sergeant Tiffany Howell, 47, of Warwick, Orange County, is facing the consequences. The New York Attorney General’s Office today announced the indictment, arrest, and arraignment of Howell on a slew of charges including Aggravated Vehicular Homicide (a class B Felony), Manslaughter in the Second Degree (a class C Felony), Vehicular Manslaughter in the First Degree (a class C Felony), and two counts of Vehicular Manslaughter in the Second Degree (a class D Felony). The indictment alleges Howell, while off-duty, drove drunk and in the wrong direction, resulting in the death of Manuel Boitel.

The incident unfolded at 11:37 p.m. on the Taconic State Parkway in Westchester County. According to Attorney General Letitia James, Howell was allegedly traveling south in the northbound lanes at a speed exceeding 50 mph when her vehicle collided head-on with Boitel’s car. The impact proved fatal. Boitel was rushed to a local hospital, but was pronounced dead shortly after midnight. Investigators say Howell’s blood alcohol content at the time of the crash was above the legal limit.

Howell appeared before Judge George Fufidio at Westchester County Court today. The judge set bail at a hefty $250,000 bond, or a $500,000 partially secured bond, with a $100,000 cash alternative. If convicted on the top charge of Aggravated Vehicular Homicide, Howell could face a sentence of eight and one-third to 25 years behind bars. Her next court appearance is scheduled for March 18 before Judge Anne B. Bianchi.

The case was handed to the Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) due to New York Executive Law Section 70-b, which mandates OSI investigate all incidents where a law enforcement officer may have caused a death, regardless of whether the officer was on or off-duty. OSI’s assessment determined there was sufficient evidence to launch a full investigation. This isn’t just about a tragic accident; it’s about accountability for someone sworn to uphold the law.

The Attorney General’s office stresses that these are merely accusations, and Howell is presumed innocent until proven guilty at trial or through a plea bargain. However, the evidence presented thus far paints a grim picture of a senseless tragedy caused by alleged intoxication and reckless disregard for human life. The family of Manuel Boitel deserves justice, and the OSI promises a thorough and unbiased prosecution.

Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it develops, bringing you the unvarnished truth from the courtroom and beyond. The question remains: will a badge and a career in law enforcement offer any leniency, or will Howell be held fully accountable for the death of Manuel Boitel?