Richfield Driver Charged in Crash That Seriously Injured Pedestrian
A Richfield man has been charged following a collision that left a pedestrian with serious injuries.
According to a complaint filed Monday in Hennepin County District Court, prosecutors say Cole Jace Lebeau, 30, was driving a 2003 Lincoln Navigator on Dec. 28 at approximately 6:57 p.m. when he struck a pedestrian near 78th Street and Portland Avenue South.
The victim sustained multiple rib fractures, lung bruising, a broken arm and a pelvic fracture. They were transported to a hospital for treatment.
Officers at the scene reported that Lebeau smelled of alcohol and admitted to consuming whiskey before driving. He declined standardized sobriety tests but provided a preliminary breath test that indicated a blood alcohol concentration of .12. A blood sample was later obtained for further testing.
The complaint states Lebeau was traveling at an estimated speed of 10–15 mph at the time of the collision. Records also revealed two prior DWI convictions within the past decade in South Dakota.
Lebeau posted a $75,000 bail and was released from custody. Lebeau will make an initial court appearance on Tuesday afternoon. If convicted of felony criminal vehicular operation, he faces up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
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