NFL Star to Enter Plea Deal in DUI Manslaughter Case
By Sarah Harper
Published on June 20, 2009
NFL star Donte` Stallworth, wide receiver for the Cleveland Browns, is expected to enter a plea deal in the DUI manslaughter case against him. By pleading guilty of DUI, Stallworth would reduce his jail sentence and resolve the case.
Stallworth, 28, is charged in the March death of a pedestrian, Mario Reyes, 59. Stallworth was driving with a blood alcohol level of .126 - well above the legal limit - when he hit and killed Reyes, who was returning home from work.
On June 4, authorities charged Stallworth with DUI manslaughter, a charge that typically carries a four- to 15-year sentence. Stallworth pleaded not guilty. He was subsequently freed on $200,000 bond and allowed to commute between Cleveland and Miami.
Reyes' family reportedly pushed for a quick plea deal to resolve the case and minimize further trauma to the victim's 15-year-old daughter. Stallworth's clean driving record, cooperation with authorities, and demonstration of remorse were other factors in determining a plea deal.
Keyword Tags: