Jury Finds Man Accused In Route 51 Crash Guilty On All Charges
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- A jury has found the man accused of causing a crash on Route 51 last year that claimed the life of a local retired businessman guilty on all charges.
Robert Freund was charged with DUI in the death of 60-year-old James Posey last December.
Police say Freund was allegedly intoxicated and speeding when his car crossed a concrete median and crashed into Posey's SUV last December. Four others were injured in the crash.
"You basically have to pay for whatever you do in this world and I taught my kids that and I've made them aware that if they do something the consequence belongs to them," said Gaye Posey, the victim's widow, after the verdict.
Their daughter and two other girls survived the crash
Prosecutors wrapped up Wednesday, and then the defense presented their case. The jury began deliberations this morning.
The defense argued other factors like Posey's speed or a third car played a role in the crash, but the jury rejected that argument.
"The Freund family today lost a son, he's likely facing a jail sentence a prison sentence and two families have their hearts broken during this holiday season," said defense attorney Casey White. "It's a sad sad day for two families certainly."
For Gaye Posey, though, this begins a renewed effort to teach about the effects of drunk driving. She plans a vigil for victims of drunk drivers next Tuesday at 6 p.m. in front of the City County Building. She hopes the broader community lea learns a lesson the defendant had to learn the hard way.
"If you get on the road and you drive drunk, as soon as you put the key into your car, guess what you have done: committed a crime," she said.
Freund was convicted on 14 counts, including homicide by vehicle, involuntary manslaughter and multiple DUI counts.
Sentencing is scheduled for March 2. The homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence conviction alone carries a mandatory sentence of three to six years.
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