CLEVELAND (AP) - A driver suspected of hitting and killing an Ohio trooper along a Cleveland interstate has been indicted on more charges that could bring a stiffer sentence if he’s convicted.
Thirty-seven-year-old Joshua Gaspar, of Columbia Station, previously pleaded not guilty to aggravated vehicular homicide in the September death of Trooper Kenneth Velez. New charges added Monday include a potential mandatory five-year prison sentence for causing an officer’s death while driving recklessly or under the influence of drugs.
Prosecutors say Gaspar took methadone shortly before the crash and didn’t have a proper license.
He denies the charges. Defense attorney Jon Sinn says Gaspar took a prescribed dose of methadone issued to him to address a drug addiction. Sinn tells The Chronicle-Telegram in Elyria (eh-LEER’-ee-uh) that Gaspar’s license was valid and properly obtained.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.