DUI Manslaughter and The Other Side of The Story

I have been following the details of a tragic traffic collision on the 60 freeway in the early hours of last Sunday that left six people dead. The story of the incident leaves me with a greater understanding of why prosecutors and judges treat DUI cases in Los Angeles so seriously. As a DUI defense attorney, I get caught up in the daily battle of representing my clients and protecting them as much as I possibly can, and I often get angry with prosecutors or judges who I perceive to be unfair or unreasonable. However, it benefits us all to step back once in a while and consider the pressures that judges and prosecutors face to work to protect the public from repeat offenders.

The incident involved a 21 year old woman who authorities say was under the influence of alcohol when she drove her red Chevrolet Camaro the wrong way on the freeway, colliding head on with another vehicle. According to witnesses, she was traveling at approximately 100mph. Six people died. According to the reports, the suspect, Olivia Carolee Culbreath, had been arrested for DUI before, when she was 17. Culbreath is hospitalized and currently under investigation for Felony DUI and Manslaughter. Among the victims are the suspect's passengers including her 24 year old sister.

I have spent most of my professional life defending DUI cases and I always endeavor to find reasons why my clients should be treated differently and why they should not be convicted of DUI. However, I always address the issue of public safety with my clients and the absolute imperative that they learn from the experience of their arrest and never drink and drive again. In some small way, I hope to prevent my clients from ever being involved in a DUI incident again, let alone a DUI causing death or personal injury.

If you or your loved one is currently facing felony DUI allegations – including vehicular manslaughter – in Los Angeles or Orange County, Gold & Witham can help. Call 800-716-6791 for a FREE case evaluation with a proven Los Angeles DUI attorney.