A Lindenhurst man has been arrested in connection with a fatal drunk driving crash in Valley Stream.
Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly announced criminal charges against Aaron Cooper, 26, on April 16th. The suspect has been charged with a number of charges, including manslaughter and vehicular manslaughter.
Cooper pleaded not guilty before Judge Christopher Quinn. If convicted, he could face up to 15 years in prison. He is scheduled to return to court on May 30th.
At 4:30 a.m. on February 10, police found Cooper’s 2023 Toyota Supra overturned on Rosedale Road in Valley Stream, killing his sole passenger, Pablo Rivera, 22. discovered. He was reportedly racing up and down Rosedale Road. He was heading west at a high rate of speed when he allegedly crossed the double yellow line into oncoming traffic, lost control of his vehicle and struck a utility pole and a tree.
A crash data recorder showed Cooper was driving about 169 mph just two seconds before the crash. He was immediately taken to Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital for treatment, including several broken ribs.
At the hospital, Cooper told detectives he was now a police officer with New York City’s 17th Precinct, police said. He was terminated from NYPD employment in January 2023, and his license remains suspended.
Donnelly said blood taken from the driver at the hospital, about an hour after the crash, showed a blood alcohol content of 0.16%.
“The defendant, a former NYPD officer, is alleged to have been drunk and recklessly driving up and down Rosedale Road at speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour, showing off a turbocharged sports car,” Donnelly said in a statement. said. “A fun ride turned deadly when the driver lost control of the car and crashed into a utility pole and tree, killing young passenger Pablo Rivera.”
She continued: “This horrific crash and senseless death was completely preventable. Despite years of education about drink and drugged driving, these types of accidents continue to occur frequently. It’s a shame.”
This case is being prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Brianna Ryan and Assistant District Attorney Nicholas Cara of the Vehicle Crimes Bureau. Mr. Cooper is represented by Richard Hochhauser.
According to media information, Mr. Hochhauser expressed his deep pain over this fatal incident in a statement on behalf of his client.
“Our hearts go out to those affected by this tragic incident. We are shocked by the loss of Aaron’s life and extend our deepest condolences to Rivera’s family and friends,” the statement read. Ta. “We recognize the seriousness of the charges and are cooperating fully with authorities as they continue their investigation.”
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