Andrew Gallo Pleads Not Guilty for DUI Murder of Adenhart

Tue, Jun 9, 2009

: Image by Getty Images via Daylife

Andrew Gallo, the drunk driver accused of running a red light and killing Los Angeles Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart, plead not guilty on Monday morning. Gallo entered a plea of not guilty to a grand jury indictment that contained three counts of second-degree murder stemming from the April 9 crash that killed Adenhart, and his two friends, 20-year-old Courtney Stewart and 25-year-old Henry Pearson.

Gallo is also charged with felony counts of fleeing from the scene of a traffic collision involving death or permanent injury, driving under the influence causing injury and driving with a .08 percent blood alcohol causing injury, plus sentencing enhancements for inflicting great bodily harm. In addition to the murder charges Gallo also entered a plea of not guilty to these charges.

Gallo’s criminal defense attorney, Randall Longwith, indicated he would file a motion to seek a change of venue on the grounds that his client could no longer receive a fair trial in Orange County. Longwith stated that, “(the) emotion is so heavy in Orange County, especially in Fullerton …that the trial for Andrew Thomas Gallo should be moved elsewhere.” Deputy District Attorney Susan Price said she opposes transferring Gallo’s trial to another county stating that Gallo “absolutely …get a fair trial here.” Price said she will attempt to take the case to trial within six months. If convicted on all charges, Gallo faces a maximum sentence of 54 years, 8 months in prison.

Editor note:

All DUI deaths are tragic. I remember when I heard about this particular tragedy, I was very touched not just by the deaths of Adenhart and his friends, but also by the circumstances. Adenhart had pitched his first MLB game with his father in attendance only hours before the accident. He got to enjoy the moment after the game with his father who was visiting to watch Nick play. While terribly sad, as a father I was happy that they got to share those last moments together and that their last moments must have been pure joy for them.

I can’t believe Gallo can plead not guilty. With his obvious disregard for the law and for his past DUI convictions, I hope he gets the maximum sentence.