Prank videos are very popular on YouTube, and with the way YouTube works, more views can equal more money. So, of course, creators in Fort Collins, Loveland, Estes Park and around the nation are pushing the limits in trying to get more views and get a coveted viral video. One YouTuber’s attempt to make a bigger and better prank video ended in tragedy and criminal charges. According to the news report, a YouTube couple planned a prank where the boyfriend held a book and the pregnant girlfriend shot a gun with the intention that the book would stop the bullet. Unfortunately, the boyfriend ended up being killed by the gunshot, as the bullet went through the book and hit him. Now, the pregnant girlfriend is in jail facing Manslaughter charges.
Larimer County Manslaughter Lawyer: What is the Definition of Manslaughter for This YouTube Creator?
The Colorado law definition of Manslaughter in Larimer, Boulder and Grand County – C.R.S. 18-3-104 – is:
(a) Such person recklessly causes the death of another person; or
(b) Such person intentionally causes or aids another person to commit suicide.
“Recklessly” is defined as:
There is always a substantial risk of injury or death when you shoot a gun at someone. Even though the boyfriend had planned it out, asked her to do it, and told her he had tested the prank, when she aimed the gun at him, she was disregarding a substantial risk.
What is the Sentence / Punishment for Manslaughter in Fort Collins?
As a class 4 felony in Fort Collins and Larimer County, Manslaughter is punishable by 2 to 6 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections and up to $500,000 in fines. It’s so sad that not only is this woman going to have the live with the fact that her boyfriend died at her hands, but now her children (including her unborn child) might have to be away from their mother for a significant amount of time – all for a stupid prank gone wrong. Even family members of the boyfriend have spoken out to say that living with what happened is definitely punishment enough. It seems the law oversteps and pushes for harsh punishments, when that might not be most appropriate for the case.
If you or someone you love has been charged with Manslaughter, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-658-0007 today. Together, we can protect your future.
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