The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
A Missouri man is scheduled to appear in court in the middle of May regarding charges stemming from an incident where he reportedly crashed into a convenience store, causing over $3,000 in damage, and drove away before dealing with the situation.
Just before midnight on February 27, the surveillance camera at a Kum & Go gas station convenience store in Springfield recorded a vehicle as it smashed into the side of the building and caused two large glass windows worth an estimated $3,700 to shatter. Right after the incident, the driver of the truck, which was identified as a 2012 Dodge Ram, reportedly backed up and drove away. The employees notified the authorities, and law enforcement from the Springfield Police Department headed to the business to investigate.
About 10 minutes after the accident, and before an officer arrived, the person later believed to be the driver of the truck went back to the Kum & Go and this time entered the store. The man started talking to one of the workers about the situation, but did not mention having anything to do with the incident before he left the premises a second time. Just after midnight, he returned a third time and went into the store. While there, the officer showed up, and before leaving, the man reportedly said he was not involved in the situation. The officer used the surveillance footage to try to identify the suspect, and the video allegedly confirmed that the person he spoke with was the driver of the truck.
After finding out his address, the police went to the man’s residence. He reportedly said he was too afraid to come forward, and that the incident occurred due to losing control of the truck when he had a mishap with one of the Crocs he was wearing. He is facing a charge of one felony count of leaving the scene of an accident where property damage exceeded $1000. In addition to jail time, he could also have to pay up to a $10,000 fine if he is convicted.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a criminal offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.