Drunk Driver Gets 15 Years For Death of Pedestrian

By Danielle Briones

Published on August 18, 2005

According to Jacksonville Beach Traffic Homicide investigators, Jeffrey Morales was under the influence of alcohol when he recklessly drove his car three times the speed limit and lost control of his jeep on St. Patrick's Day in 2004.

The vehicle flipped, skidded, and went airborne, taking out light poles, a fence, shrubs, and a palm tree.

Ben Cabacungan, Jr, 22, was killed when he was hit by Morales jeep as he was walking on the sidewalk in front of the Freebird Cafe.

Morales suffered minor injuries to the head.

Following hours of testimony from Morales, his family, and the Cabacungan family, the judge imposed the 15-year sentence. Vehicular homicide charges were dropped due to a previous plea agreement.

In addition, Morales license has been revoked interminably.