By: William M. Berman, Esquire
RIVERSIDE, CALIFORNIA – Tony Martinez was sentenced to 15 years in prison for gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and for fleeing the scene of an automobile accidentthat killed 20-year-old Nicholas Justin Campbell. According to Judge John Kelly, it was the most severe punishment available under law. The sentence was issued in front of a packed audience that included approximately 20 of Nicholas Campbell’s family and friends, as well as members of the California Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred on August 25, 2007, near Highway 74 and Ethanac Road. Nicholas Campbell, who was driving his motorcycle, was found hanging from the rear of Tony Martinez’s car. According to the prosecutor, Tony Martinez had been caught drinking and driving about three months prior to the crash that killed Nicholas Campbell.
The sudden death of a loved one caused by the reckless acts of another causes unimaginable sorrow and loss that many times remain with the victim’s family and friends for the rest of their lives. At Berman & Riedel, LLP, the attorneys and staff are experienced in handling wrongful death cases, and understand not only the legal aspects but also the emotional aspects affecting our clients.