Have You Seen The Documentary ‘the Crash,’ And What Are Your Thoughts On It?

Yes, I’ve watched ‘The Crash’ with my family, and it has been a topic of discussion at my law firm. As a former prosecutor and criminal trial attorney, I viewed it from a criminal justice perspective, critiquing courtroom actions and decisions. The documentary covers a 2022 case in Ohio involving Mackenzie Sterelli, who was convicted of homicide following a traffic accident that resulted in the deaths of her boyfriend and a friend. Despite being a juvenile, she was tried as an adult, receiving a sentence of 15 years to life.

How Is The Distinction Between Juvenile And Adult Defined In Michigan’s Criminal Justice System?

In Michigan, the age of adult jurisdiction was raised from 17 to 18 in October 2021. Before this change, 17-year-olds were treated as adults in the criminal system. Now, 18 and above is considered adult jurisdiction. However, for serious offenses, such as felonies, prosecutors can automatically waive juveniles over 14 into adult court without needing a juvenile court judge’s permission. This differs from Ohio, where a judge must decide if a juvenile can be tried as an adult.

Is Charging Someone With Murder Typical In Automobile Accidents Like This?

No, charging someone with murder in automobile accidents is rare. Most automobile fatalities, especially involving young people, are deemed tragic accidents, leading to civil lawsuits or insurance settlements rather than criminal charges. Criminal charges like homicide typically arise if there is evidence of drinking, drug use, or intentional or reckless behavior. In Mackenzie’s case, there was no evidence of intoxication, making the murder charge unusual as it suggested an intent to kill.

What Evidence Did The Police And Prosecutor Use To Prove MacKenzie Was Guilty?

The evidence used against Mackenzie included accident reconstruction, which showed no mechanical failure or medical issues, and data from the car’s black box indicating the car was traveling at 100 mph without any attempt to brake. Surveillance footage, social media, and text messages were also analyzed for incriminating evidence. Additionally, her relationship with her boyfriend was portrayed as toxic, which helped build a motive for the alleged intentional act.

Was MacKenzie Found Guilty By A Jury Trial?

No, Mackenzie was found guilty by a judge, not a jury. This strategic decision by her attorneys was significant, as in Michigan, both the prosecutor and defendant must agree to waive a jury trial. Opting for a bench trial with one judge’s decision, especially in a case of this magnitude, was risky. A jury trial might have offered better odds, as it involves 12 different opinions.

How Would MacKenzie’s Sentencing Compare To Michigan’s Standards?

Mackenzie’s sentence of 15 years to life is somewhat comparable to Michigan’s standards for second-degree murder, which is punishable by up to life in prison with a set minimum sentence. Michigan uses sentencing guidelines, which consider the defendant’s background and record. While Ohio’s sentencing might differ, the outcome for a similar case in Michigan could potentially be a higher minimum sentence.

How Frequently Does Your Firm Handle Automobile Death Cases?

Unfortunately, our firm handles such cases quite frequently. Our practice focuses on criminal, injury, and license issues, all of which intersect in automobile death cases. We defend clients charged with causing deaths, assist with license reinstatements, and file civil suits for wrongful deaths or injuries. Ann Arbor’s high traffic and pedestrian activity contribute to the number of these cases we see regularly.