Suspect in Fatal Dockweiler Beach Crash was Out on Bail for Previous DUI

According to a recent story by ABC News, the grieving family of a 21-year-old woman killed in a DUI crash earlier this month is demanding answers. They want to know why the man responsible for her death was out on bail for a previous DUI charge.

A Los Angeles Police Department representative and the victim’s family held a news conference on Monday, August 29, about the matter. 

Both the family and officials are demanding to know why the suspect, Neal Cooper, who was arrested in Manhattan Beach in February on the charge of DUI and then later on August 11, was able to post bail each time.

“One of the things that the family is upset about, and we’re not happy about either, is that despite his (Cooper’s) bail being set very high, there was a bail reduction, and he was able to bail out,” LAPD Detective James Dickson told reporters.

Investigators in the fatal crash estimate Cooper was driving more than 100 miles per hour before crashing into the victim’s car.

Police say that considering Cooper’s prior arrests on the charge of DUI, he will now be facing the charge of vehicular homicide.

“His actions could have taken your son, or your daughter, your mom, or even your grandma,” the victim’s older sister said. “My sister was 21. She had dreams. She was also a family-oriented person. She loved her life, and her death was preventable.”

On behalf of the attorneys and staff of our firm, we would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to this young woman’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.

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