Accidents happen rather frequently. This is especially true with motor vehicles. Often times, negligence, recklessness and even intentional acts could lead to a serious incident. While this could spark a civil action against a motorist, it could also result in criminal charges. Therefore, it is important to fully understand the events leading to the incident, what happened during the crash and what occurred after the accident occurred to gain a perspective on the available criminal defense options for the accused offender.
Intentional collision
According to recent reports, a Massachusetts man stated that he intentionally crashed a truck he stole into a Planned Parenthood clinic located in New Jersey. This collision caused two patients and a staff member to suffer injuries. He was charged with aggravated assault, causing or risking widespread injury or damage, being in possession of a stolen vehicle and using a vehicle as a weapon. To this, he pleaded guilty.
Aggravating circumstances
It was alleged by prosecutors that the 34-year-old man was intentionally crashing the vehicle into the clinic in order to destroy it. Thus, he was charged with terrorism and could face up to 30 years in prison if he is convicted of this charge. The man admitted that he targeted the clinic and was willing to die in order to carry out his plans. As a result, three individuals were harmed.
Based on the plea agreement being presented, the man will likely have the terrorism charge dismissed. This could mean the longest prison sentence he could face would be 10 years.
Facing serious criminal allegations can be an overwhelming event to navigate; thus, it is important for accused offenders to understand their rights and explore their criminal defense options. Initiating a criminal defense is the best way to ensure one’s rights are protected. Furthermore, it could help reduce the charges faced, penalized endured or could even help clear his or her name.
