Daily Archives: July 27, 2009
As predicted, charges upgraded in American Idol case
As I predicted a few hours ago, Daniel Bark is now facing some additional charges aggravated manslaughter, death by auto and eluding police, all related to the death of American Idol contestant Alexis Cohen. His bail is now set at $150,000.
I think the Agg Man charges are going to be tough for the State to prove here because Bark was not arrested until the next day. Thus, it will be tough for the State to prove that he was highly intoxicated which is usually required for an Agg Man charges in this context. Thus, my guess is a plea is eventually worked out for about 10 years.
Story is here.
Charges could be upgraded in case involving death of former American Idol contestant Alexis Cohen
Former American Idol contestant Alexis Cohen struck by a car as she was killed on Saturday while walking near the intersection of Bay Boulevard and Dupont Avenue in the beach town of Seaside Heights. Police allege that 23 year old Daniel Bark struck her with his car causing fatal head, chest and abdomen injuries.
Bark fled the scene and was arrested at 6 p.m. on Sunday in Atlantic Highlands which is about an hour or so north of Seaside Heights. He is in jail on $35,000 bail.
Right now he is only charged with reckless driving and leaving the scene of an accident. My guess is that Bark was at intoxicated to some extent so I expect that homicide charges will be filed shortly. As a result, his bail will be much higher.
This is going to be a high profile case and everyone will be watching what happens due to the American Idol connection. As a result, Bark needs an attorney that will hit the ground running and start preparing for trial today! That is his best hope to avoid a lengthy prison sentence.
Story is here.
Tonacchio Law LC 