Former Yankee Jim Leyritz's Manslaughter Trial
The prosecution's case in Jim Leyritz's DUI Manslaughter trial began today in a Florida Courtroom. In December of 2007, Leyritz allegedly ran a red light, and struck a vehicle being driven by Fredia Ann Veitch. Ms. Veitch, a 30 year old mother, was ejected from her vehicle, resulting in her death.
The prosecutor, in her opening statement, informed the jury that Leyritz's blood alcohol content was more than twice that of the legal limit. There are apparently 40 or so witnesses that may eventually testify. Leyritz's attorney chose to defer his opening statement.
There is evidence that Ms. Veitch was also intoxicated, and was not wearing her seatbelt. Although a seatbelt may have prevented her ejection from the vehicle, the trial judge will not allow the jury to hear this evidence.
Leyritz and his insurance carrier have already settled the civil suit, with the carrier paying $250,000 (likely Leyritz's policy limit), and Leyritz himself will make 100 montly payments of $1,000.
The prosecutor, in her opening statement, informed the jury that Leyritz's blood alcohol content was more than twice that of the legal limit. There are apparently 40 or so witnesses that may eventually testify. Leyritz's attorney chose to defer his opening statement.
There is evidence that Ms. Veitch was also intoxicated, and was not wearing her seatbelt. Although a seatbelt may have prevented her ejection from the vehicle, the trial judge will not allow the jury to hear this evidence.
Leyritz and his insurance carrier have already settled the civil suit, with the carrier paying $250,000 (likely Leyritz's policy limit), and Leyritz himself will make 100 montly payments of $1,000.
My name is Christopher Fusco. I am the managing partner of Callahan & Fusco, LLC with offices in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.