Due to a deadly hit-and-run that claimed the life of a devoted motorbike rider, an Alabama man will serve the rest of his life in murder case.
According to The Cullman Times, Brett Amerson, 59, was found guilty in late April. On one count of reckless homicide in connection with the death of Bradley Ray Patterson, 39, on December 18, 2018.
Box truck driver charged with DUI after fatal hit-and-run murder
The newspaper stated that Amerson was operating a box truck on the relevant day, citing the Cullman County District Attorney’s Office. Furthermore, he promised to test positive for blood alcohol levels that were at least three times the legal limit. When Patterson was murdered on Alabama State Route 157 close to the 310 exit flyover by the massive white vehicle, he had the right of way.
According to many witnesses, the box truck struck the biker and then fled the scene. After it crossed the median along Interstate 65 in Cullman, Alabama, reports ABC station WBMA in Birmingham.
Cullman County Sheriff’s officers travelled about 21 miles south before discovering and apprehending Amerson. A breathalyser led to an original DUI felony accusation. Later, there was a significant enhancement to the charge.
Amerson received a 131-year jail term from Cullman County Circuit Judge Martha Williams on Tuesday. He will be given credit for the 4.5 years that he spent in pretrial custody.
Lengthy criminal history of defendant in shooting murder case
The defendant, who was accused of firing a pistol at another guy in 2016, was on probation at the time of his arrest after entering a plea agreement. Amerson received three years of probation in return for entering a guilty plea to firing into an occupied residence, according to WBMA.
However, the defendant had a lengthy criminal history dating back to 1998, with Amerson being detained 11 times and convicted twice for DUI-related offences.
The Cullman Tribune reports that Cullman County District Attorney Champ Crocker stated at the time of the defendant’s conviction, “The evidence at trial proved the defendant was triple-drunk and driving recklessly when the crash occurred.” “I am also so happy that we were able to bring Bradley Patterson’s family justice.”
Two teenagers were among the family members the victim left behind.
Prosecutors argued for a hefty sentence during sentencing. noting the defendant’s “egregious crime and lengthy criminal history,” according to a Birmingham News courtroom report.