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August 21, 2023
For Immediate Release
Contact: Sara Avalos
(224) 374-2376
Savalos@lakecountyil.gov
Lake County Jury Convicts Man for Causing Fatal DUI Accident
Brian J. King
(Lake County, IL) Late afternoon, Wednesday, August 16, 2023, a jury trial concluded with a “guilty” verdict on one count of Aggravated Driving with any amount of drug in urine, a class 2 felony.
Brian J. King, 41, was charged after the Lake County Sheriff’s Office conducted an extensive investigation into an Ingleside crash that caused the death of 53-year-old, Michael Brennan in June 2021.
“Our team secured justice for Michael through this verdict. I am so proud of the excellent efforts of the Sheriff’s Office, trial prosecutors, and victim-support professionals who all worked together in this heartbreaking case” said State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart after the jury’s decision.
The jury trial began on Monday, August 14, 2023, lasting three days, with both parties resting on Wednesday afternoon. The jury heard from several State witnesses, including law enforcement officers, eyewitnesses, and an expert in forensic toxicology from the Northeastern Illinois Regional Crime Lab.
Eyewitness testimony explained how King traveled on Route 12 and Route 59, swerving repeatedly for approximately 13 miles before eventually approaching Stanton Point Road and hitting Michael Brennan, who was walking on grass and gravel next to the shoulder.
Law enforcement officers also explained how chemical tests were administered to the defendant, which revealed that King’s urine contained Methamphetamine as well as seven other controlled substances.
Medical expert testimony explained how the injuries from the accident led to Brennan’s death on June 16, 2021.
King was being held on $500,000 bond in the Lake County Jail while awaiting his trial. After the verdict, Judge Mark Levitt revoked his ability to post bail.
A sentencing date is set for September 13, at 1:30 p.m.
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Lake County State's Attorney's Office
18 N. County Street
Waukegan, IL 60085
Phone: (847) 377-3000
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