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A DUI charge can not only interrupt your life, it can have life-changing consequences. This is especially true if the DUI is compounded by an accident. If the accident causes the death or injury of others, you can find yourself facing serious charges and spending time in prison.
A 28-year-old Glendale woman who triggered a three-vehicle crash last year has begun serving a six-year prison sentence on Wednesday, May 11.
Christine Vahe Mesdjian pleaded “no contest” on May 5 to charges of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated during her pretrial hearing. An additional count of felony DUI was dismissed in conjunction with the fatal three-vehicle crash that occurred on February 15, 2015. The crash claimed the life of 59-year-old David Andrew Jaramillo of Whittier.
Initially, Mesdjian told authorities that she fell asleep at the wheel when she blew through a red light. Skid marks at the scene contradicted her story, however.
Mesdjian had been driving a Toyota pickup truck north on Paramount Boulevard when she ran a red light and collided with the passenger side of a Toyota Scion heading east along Slauson Avenue. The force of the collision caused the Scion to be pushed into a Toyota Camry headed west along Slauson.
Jaramillo, who was driving the Scion, died at the scene.
Three passengers along with Mesdjian also suffered injuries.
Mesdjian was not arrested immediately after the crash. Ultimately, deputies turned over their findings regarding the accident to prosecutors, who issued an arrest warrant for the suspect. The warrant was issued in late June of 2015 and Mesdjian turned herself in on June 30.
If you have been charged with DUI, you will need representation in court. Our attorneys are all experienced with DUI cases and can help your situation. Contact us today.