New costs have been introduced in Suffolk County Courtroom towards Matthew Smith, the person alleged to be answerable for inflicting the loss of life of Officer Patricia Espinoza in a car crash on Lengthy Island.
In line with the investigation, Smith was driving whereas intoxicated and ran a crimson gentle. The prosecution shared additional particulars in court docket concerning his alleged reckless conduct on January 31—the day of the tragedy.
“Different patrons on the bar informed him, ‘You shouldn’t be driving.’ Not solely did he ignore them, however he really dangled his automotive keys in entrance of their faces, as if to say, ‘I’m going to drive,’” stated Raymond A. Tierney, the Suffolk County District Lawyer.
This motion was captured on video whereas he was consuming alcoholic drinks on the James Joyce institution in Patchogue, Lengthy Island, in line with the prosecution.
Matthew Smith, 20, now faces 19 costs—together with aggravated vehicular murder, probably the most severe cost, which carries a possible jail sentence of 8 to 25 years. He additionally faces costs of second-degree manslaughter, reckless driving, and different violations.
“Let’s be clear about one factor: this was not an accident; this was a complete disregard for human life,” stated Tommy Shevlin, President of the PBA. “For our households, our kids, and everybody else on the street, any considered one of them might have been injured or killed.”
Notably, a video recorded by a passenger within the defendant’s car shortly earlier than the tragedy—in line with the prosecution—demonstrates the suspect’s indifference towards the legislation and the security of others.
The prosecution alleges that Smith was driving a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck at speeds reaching 125 to 128 miles per hour (mph) all through the evening, and that he was touring at 70 mph when he ran a crimson gentle and struck Officer Espinosa’s Alfa Romeo. In line with reviews, Smith’s blood alcohol degree was 0.20%—greater than double the authorized restrict—roughly 40 minutes after the accident.
“We’re going to vigorously prosecute this case with the complete weight of the legislation,” Tierney stated.
Smith’s lawyer declined to touch upon Friday as he was accompanied by the defendant’s dad and mom.
The sufferer’s husband additionally appeared in court docket, accompanied by different relations.
Officer Espinosa, 42, was a nine-year veteran of the Nassau County Police Division. On the time of the lethal accident, she was on her strategy to work. Along with her husband, she is survived by a 2-year-old daughter.
The following listening to within the case is scheduled for April 20, though the defendant—who stays in jail with out bail—isn’t required to be current.
