A South Carolina judge has ordered that Jamie Komoroski, a 25-year-old woman accused of killing a bride in a tragic golf cart crash while allegedly driving under the influence, must remain in custody until her trial. The decision came after she spent three months behind bars without trial since the April 28th incident in Folly Beach.
The crash resulted in the death of Samantha Miller, a 34-year-old newlywed, and left her husband, Aric Hutchinson, with severe injuries, including a brain injury and broken bones. Two other individuals were also injured in the late-night collision, as reported by the Folly Beach Department of Public Safety at the time.
According to a toxicology report released by the department, Komoroski’s blood alcohol content was more than three times the legal limit at the time of the crash. Authorities stated that she was driving at 65 mph in a 25 mph zone when her vehicle collided with the street-legal golf cart.
Komoroski has been facing charges of reckless homicide and DUI and had requested bail during the court appearance. Her defense attorney, Christopher Gramiccioni, argued that she had a spotless record with no prior criminal history, even in her academic life.
However, Judge Michael G. Nettles denied bail, agreeing with attorney Jerry Meehan’s statement that Komoroski posed a danger to the community. Miller’s family also expressed relief at the judge’s decision, with her mother, Lisa Miller, emphasizing that she wouldn’t wish this ordeal upon anyone.
Komoroski will continue to be held at the Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center in Charleston. Judge Nettles mentioned that he might consider a $150,000 bond with house arrest if the trial doesn’t take place by spring 2024, but defense attorney Gramiccioni believes that Komoroski qualifies for release under the current legal criteria.
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Despite the court’s decision, the tragic incident has left a lasting impact on the victims’ families, and they question why the accused should be released to go about her life while they continue to cope with their loss.
