Delaware man fined in crash that killed teenager
Most serious charges dropped against Miles
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A Delaware man originally charged with involuntary manslaughter and vehicular homicide in relation to a vehicle crash that killed a Williamsburg teen pleaded guilty to three summary traffic violations after the more serious charges were dropped.
Jeffrey Drue Miles Jr., 38, pleaded guilty March 22 to a summary charge of careless driving - unintentional death, careless driving - serious bodily injury and exceeding the maximum speed limit by 20 mph. He was also fined a total of $850 during his sentencing in Bedford County Court last Friday.
Defense attorney Ted Krol said the hearing was very emotional for the family of 17-year-old Karisma Bethany Dell, who was killed in the crash. "Tears were shed," he said, "the family was upset."
The accident occurred about 7 p.m. Feb. 26, 2022, on Route 220 south of Bedford. State police investigated the crash and charges were filed against Miles on March 10, 2023.
According to the affidavit of probable cause, Miles was driving 20 miles per hour over the posted 55 mph speed limit. As he was passing another vehicle, he could see a Pontiac G6 approaching.
He realized he might not be able to pass and applied his brakes before his Toyota Highlander struck the Pontiac head on. Dell was driving the Pontiac.
Miles was passing in a legal passing zone, police stated. The investigation showed that he was going 78 mph five seconds before the crash, but hard braking dropped his speed to between 49-55 mph. The Pontiac was going 64 mph five seconds before the crash, the investigation revealed.
Felony charges of involuntary manslaughter, homicide by vehicle and aggravated assault by vehicle, along with two misdemeanor charges of recklessly endangering another person were dismissed Nov. 13, while the summary charges of careless driving - unintentional death, careless driving - serious bodily injury and exceeding the maximum speed by 20 mph were held over for court.
When the charges were dismissed last year, Bedford County President Judge Travis W. Livengood found the commonwealth's evidence insufficient to support them. Because Miles slowed his vehicle and did not lose control, there is insufficient evidence to sustain the elements of recklessness and gross negligence, Livengood ruled.
"In accordance with the existing case law, defendant's speed -- without more -- is insufficient to sustain the elements of recklessness and gross negligence," Livengood's opinion stated.
"We stress that our decision is founded upon our solemn duty to interpret and apply the law, and does not change the tragic loss of life and serious injuries sustained by the victims," Livengood stated.