District Attorney Announces Sentencing of a Reno Man to Maximum Term for DUI Involving Death of 16 Year Old North Valley Boy

Washoe County District Attorney Chris Hicks announced today the sentencing of a Reno man to 20 years on a charge of DUI causing death

August 21, 2015
Reno, Nevada

Washoe County District Attorney Chris Hicks announced today the sentencing of a Reno man on a charge of DUI causing death to a maximum prison term of 20 years for the June 2014 death of a 16 year old local high school student.

Jesse Michael Todd, 52, (DOB 12/5/62), was charged with one count of Driving Under the Influence Causing Death for the June 13, 2014 death of the victim, who was riding his bike along Seneca Drive in Lemmon Valley at approximately 9:00 pm.  The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office investigation into the accident determined that Todd was under the influence of alcohol, speeding, and crossed over the center line into the oncoming travel lane when he crashed into the boy.  A Jack Daniels whisky bottle discarded by the defendant was found at the scene and investigators estimated Todd’s blood alcohol level was .159 at the time of the accident. The minor, who had just finished the last day of his sophomore year at North Valley High School, was transported to a local hospital where he died of his injuries.

Todd pled guilty to the charge in July of this year and was sentenced earlier today in Washoe County District Court by the Honorable Judge Lidia Stiglich. He will be eligible for parole after 8 years. 

District Attorney Chris Hicks commented, “This case signifies the dangers and resulting tragedies of drunk driving.  It should serve as a reminder, that it is never a good idea to get behind the wheel after drinking.”