Driving recklessly is never a good behavior for anyone to engage in. In most states, if a person is driving recklessly when they are involved in an accident, they can often face more serious charges. In New York, if the accident causes the death of another person, the driver can be charged with second-degree manslaughter. Manslaughter in the second degree is a class-C felony and a conviction can result in a sentence of up to 15 years in state prison, accompanied by a hefty fine. In addition to the charges of manslaughter, they can also be charged with traffic violations.
The Post Star reports that a man is facing manslaughter charges in a fatal high-speed crash.
30-year-old Skyler B. Crouse of Akwesasne, which is a Mohawk territory on the border between New York and Canada, was fleeing from police when he crashed into another vehicle.
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Crouse was fleeing from police for approximately 25 miles in the northbound lanes of Route 8. He exited the highway at Exit 25 when he slammed into the back of a vehicle being driven by 38-year-old Joseph D. Turcotte. Turcotte died at the scene. The crash occurred on Tuesday morning and by Tuesday night, Crouse was in custody.
Crouse is facing charges of manslaughter in the second degree, first-degree reckless endangerment, unlawful fleeing of a police officer, and resisting arrest. After it was pointed out that Crouse has a long history of failing to answer charges, he was remanded to custody with no bail.
At his arraignment, Crouse showed no signs of remorse and instead remained angry and defiant.
Crouse has a lengthy history of criminal and driving offenses. If convicted, he faces 8 2/3 to 25 years in prison.
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