A 24-year-old male from Atlantic Beach was recently arrested and is facing charges for a fatal accident that occurred earlier this month. Charges against him include a felony DUI resulting in death, which can result in pretty severe consequences under South Carolina laws if convicted. These consequences include prison time, fines, loss of license and mandatory rehabilitation. With so much on the line, a calculated criminal defense may prove beneficial in fighting for his best interests.
The accident occurred in the early morning hours near North Myrtle Beach.The accused allegedly struck a bicyclist with his vehicle and supposedly left the scene. Shortly after the crash, he apparently walked back to the crash site and found the police already investigating the incident. The cyclist, a 33-year-old male, died at the scene of the collision.
The officers on the scene performed field sobriety tests on the accused and made the determination that he was intoxicated. He was arrested, and a warrant was issued to collect blood samples. He is currently being held at a local detention center on $25,000 bond. It is unknown if any court dates have been scheduled to review his case.
Charges like those issued in this case could have life-changing consequences for the accused individual. Felony DUI charges — particularly involving incidents that result in the death of another person — are not taken lightly in Florida. The accused in this situation maintains his right to defend himself against this and any other charges filed against him. Utilizing a criminal defense can help in exploring the best legal options available for this individual’s specific circumstances — such as offering a focused defense on his behalf and/or choosing to enter a plea agreement — and working to find a solution that keeps the accused’s best interest in mind.
Source: wbtw.com, “Atlantic Beach man charged with felony DUI in deadly bike crash“, Meghan Miller, July 12, 2014