Anderson University Assistant Coach Arrested with SC Felony DUI Charges
Early on Saturday, November 7th, 24 year old assistant coach with Anderson University, crossed the center line colliding head on with a Nissan Altima, killing the driver and two passengers. He was then arrested on South Carolina felony DUI charges.
According to the arrest warrant, McDermott was on Wilson Road just after midnight on Saturday, when his Ford Pickup crossed the center line and collided head-on with a Nissan Altima. The crash killed the driver of the Nissan at the scene. One passenger was also killed at the scene, and another was taken to a local hospital, where she later died from her injuries. The third passenger was also injured in the felony DUI crash, but is in stable condition, according to the Coroner’s Office.
McDermott had one passenger in his vehicle, who was extricated from the truck and is currently in the hospital in critical condition.
“McDermott did admit to city police officers than he had been drinking,” said Anderson County Coroner Greg Shore.
McDermott was not seriously hurt in the felony DUI accident. His bail hearing for the felony DUI charge was on Monday, November 10th.
South Carolina Felony DUI Law
A person will be charged with a felony for driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both, if while operating the vehicle under the influence, the person causes “great bodily injury” or death to a person other than himself including a passenger, pedestrian, another driver.
Upon conviction of a felony DUI by jury, the accused faces a minimum mandatory prison sentence and fine. A DUI conviction that includes a felony conviction for causing the death of another includes a mandatory minimum sentence of at least 1 year in prison with a maximum 25 years imprisonment, and a minimum mandatory fine of not less than $10,100 nor more than $25,100. Additionally, the convicted person’s driver’s license is suspended for the term of imprisonment plus five years.
A felony DUI conviction for causing great bodily injury includes a mandatory minimum of 30 days to a maximum of 15 years imprisonment, plus a mandatory fine of at least $5,000, not to exceed $10,100. Also, the DMV must suspend the convicted person’s driver’s license for the term of imprisonment plus three years.
A part of the mandatory sentences required to be imposed under the felony DUI law must not be suspended, and probation must not be granted for any portion.
The Strom Law Firm Can Help with Felony DUI Charges in South Carolina
Based in Columbia, SC, the attorneys at the Strom Law Firm collectively have over 30 years of experience with South Carolina law. The firm was founded in 1996 by former US Attorney and Assistant Solicitor Pete Strom. If you face felony DUI charges in South Carolina, we can help. We offer free, confidential consultations to discuss the facts of your case. Do not let DUI or felony DUI charges prevent you from pursuing opportunities. Contact us today. 803.252.4800.
