Downriver Man Accused In Teen's Hit-And-Run Death Held On $350,000 Bond
TAYLOR (WWJ) - Bond has been set at $350,000 for a 36-year-old man accused of leaving the scene after striking two teenagers who were riding a moped, one of whom died from injuries.
Justin Saum was arraigned Thursday via video in 23rd District Court on charges of driving with a suspended license causing death, leaving the scene of an accident causing death, driving with a suspended license causing serious injury, and leaving the scene of a serious injury accident. A not guilty plea was entered on his behalf.
In setting bond at $350,000 cash, Judge Geno Salomone said he considered Saum's lengthy criminal past and his issues with substance abuse, saying he was "concerned of Mr Saum's behavior and his history." If Saum posts bond, he is not allowed to consume alcohol or drugs, he must wear an alcohol tether and he is prohibited from having contact with the victims or their families.
Saum, a father of three who works as a project manager for a construction company, is due back in court for a probable cause conference on March 14 and a preliminary exam on March 21.
Saum was allegedly driving his pickup truck on Sunday night when he struck 17-year-old Austin McCumber, who was on a minibike with another passenger. Police say Saum immediately fled the scene after the accident.
According to police, the teens ran apparently ran a stop sign at Joan and Harold Streets just prior to the collision. McCumber was seriously injured and died two days later. The other passenger, 17-year-old Martin Jaime, was released from the hospital after receiving treatment.
Saum turned himself in to police on Monday. If convicted as charged, he faces up to 22 years behind bars.