Last December, Ismeal Soto was driving drunk when he crashed his truck into several parked cars. Those parked vehicles then struck several pedestrians who were viewing holiday lights in Alhambra. The collision occurred near Fremont Avenue and Poplar Boulevard.
His alcohol level was 2.5 times the legal limit and he was speeding at the time. Fifteen people were injured as a result of the accident.
On September 29th of this year, Soto entered a no-contest plea to the charges, which included several offenses: DUI causing injury within ten years of two other DUI offenses; driving with a .08 blood alcohol content causing injury within 10 years; driving while privileges were suspended or revoked for DUI conviction; and driving a vehicle not equipped with an ignition interlock device. Soto also admitted to several other charges: causing great bodily injury to more than one victim in the commission of a crime; excessive speed; and driving with a BAC over .20 percent. The legal limit is .08 percent.
Soto had two previous DUI convictions on record – one in 2013 and one in 2012. He was sentenced to 12 years in state prison after pleading no contest to all charges. No plea deal was reached with prosecutors.
If you or someone you know has been charged with DUI, retaining an attorney that specializes in DUI is important. Our attorneys are all experienced in DUI defense. Contact our offices today for a consultation.
