WILLEMSTAD - The Public Prosecutor’s Office (OM) has filed an appeal against the acquittal of J.M.J.O. (25), a man from the Dominican Republic. The suspect was previously acquitted by the court of all charges related to a fatal traffic accident on the Juliana Bridge. During an urgent drive to the hospital, his car ended up at the bottom of the Arubaweg embankment, resulting in the death of Miguel Marte Peguero.
J.M.J.O. was accused of driving under the influence of alcohol, reckless driving, driving without a license, and failing to ensure that the passenger was wearing a seatbelt. According to the OM, he caused the accident that led to Marte Peguero's death.
The Public Prosecutor had initially demanded a nine-month prison sentence, a two-year driving ban, and 240 hours of community service, with a two-year probation period.
During the trial, however, the judge ruled that J.M.J.O. acted in an emergency situation, as he was trying to get his friend, who had been shot four times, to the emergency room.
Although the judge acknowledged that the suspect was under the influence and speeding, it was ruled that his actions were justified given the circumstances. The OM is now appealing the verdict, seeking a review of the court’s decision.
(photo credit: Extra)