Anyone who drives on the Maryland roadways has the responsibility to drive in a safe manner. People who fail to do so and those who are perceived as not driving safely might end up facing criminal charges. For those people, presenting a defense against the criminal charges becomes necessary because of the severity of the consequences in this state. One Episcopal bishop is learning all about the importance of defending herself in court.
The woman is facing 13 charges after being indicted by a Baltimore-based grand jury. The woman was allegedly involved in a hit-and-run accident last year that killed a bicyclist. She has been charged with a variety of charges, including manslaughter by vehicle, texting while driving, driving under the influence of alcohol per se, reckless driving and criminal negligent manslaughter by vehicle. Other charges have also been placed against the woman.
The accident killed a 41-year-old man. Instead of stopping to help the man, she allegedly left the scene and only came back when other bicyclists chased the clergywoman down. She is said to have been uncooperative after the accident.
The woman posted a $2.5 million bail and was said to have going into an inpatient alcohol treatment facility. Her attorney said that she will not be driving pending the trial. In addition to the consequences she faces because of the criminal proceedings, she is also facing some professional consequences. She has been asked to resign her position with the Episcopal Church and is the subject of a Title IV Disciplinary Process.
Anyone who is facing drunk driving charges or any criminal justice charges will likely have to face professional, personal and legal consequences. Exploring your options for dealing with the charges might help you to learn how each option will affect each aspect of your life.
Source: Christian Post, “Maryland Episcopal Bishop Heather Cook Indicted for Deadly Hit-And-Run, Facing More Charges” Michael Gryboski, Feb. 11, 2015