Florida Father Jailed for Cocaine Crash That Killed Son

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A Florida man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after causing a fatal crash while high on cocaine, which resulted in the death of his teenage son.

Authorities confirmed that 40-year-old Christopher King lost control of his vehicle after suffering an epileptic seizure, brought on by a cocaine binge just hours before getting behind the wheel. The crash occurred in March 2023 in Pasco County, Florida, when King’s SUV swerved off the road and collided with a tree. His 15-year-old son, who was sitting in the passenger seat, died at the scene.

Medical and forensic reports presented in court revealed that King had consumed a significant amount of cocaine the night before the crash and had not taken his prescribed anti-seizure medication. According to prosecutors, the combination of drugs and untreated epilepsy made King unfit to drive, and the crash was a preventable tragedy.

During the sentencing hearing at the Pasco County Circuit Court, Judge Jennifer Maxwell called King’s actions “reckless and inexcusable,” adding that he had failed in his fundamental duty as a parent to protect his child. The court heard how King’s driving history included prior convictions and drug-related offenses, which further demonstrated a pattern of irresponsible behavior.

The judge rejected the defense’s claim that the incident was unforeseeable, stating that King was fully aware of the risks associated with his condition and drug use. In a brief statement, King expressed remorse, telling the court he “would trade places with his son in a heartbeat” and “lives every day with the guilt of what happened.”

The prosecution noted that King had ignored multiple warnings from doctors and family members about the dangers of driving while medicated or under the influence of narcotics. Investigators also found that the crash occurred at high speed, further contributing to its fatal outcome.

The case has renewed discussions in Florida about drug use among drivers with medical conditions. Law enforcement and legal experts say that while epilepsy itself isn’t a disqualifying factor for driving, combining it with illicit drug use poses serious risks not just to drivers, but to everyone on the road.

Under Florida law, causing death while driving under the influence is considered a felony punishable by significant prison time. The 10-year sentence includes a five-year driving ban upon King’s release.

Advocates for road safety have urged drivers with medical conditions to be more responsible and seek medical advice regularly. “This case highlights the tragic consequences of ignoring medical guidance and abusing drugs,” said a spokesperson for the Florida Highway Patrol.