Man Convicted of DUI Manslaughter

download (3)A man from Brighton Heights was sentenced to jail for his role in the death of a pedestrian in 2013 while driving under the influence of alcohol.

According to court documents, Gregg R. Baratka, 38, has been sentenced by Common Pleas Judge Edward J. Borkowski of Allegheny County to serve eight to 23 months’ imprisonment and four years’ probation.

In December of 2013, Baratka told police was turning left in a pickup truck from Brighton Road onto Woods Run Avenue about 7:30 p.m. Baratka heard his side-view mirror hit his window and he stopped his vehicle. Witnesses informed him that he had struck a pedestrian. Baratka called 911 and waited for police to arrive at the scene.

The victim in the accident, pedestrian James Lepinsky, 88, died four days as the result of blunt force trauma suffered in the accident.

Police administered a blood-alcohol test which indicated that Bartaka’s blood alcohol level was 0.09 — just above the legal limit of 0.08 percent.

Baratka pleaded guilty to the charge of homicide by vehicle, accidents involving death, DUI and other related offenses.

Anyone who is facing the charge of DUI, particularly when there is a fatality involved needs a solid legal defense. Even if the situation seems hopeless, and you face the reality of lengthy prison time, high fines and other life changing consequences, you need someone who can help you.

If you or a loved one is facing a charge of DUI, you will need the knowledge and experience of an attorney dedicated to defending DUI cases. That is the time you need to call the Law Offices of Steven E. Kellis.

Mr. Kellis has more than 20 years of experience representing clients charged with DUI and related offenses.

When you call, we will schedule an appointment for Steven Kellis to meet with you. Our offices are available for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can either phone us to schedule an appointment, or use the form on our website. Contact us today.