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Alleged Shockoe hit and run driver makes first court appearance

Posted at 1:01 PM, May 14, 2012
and last updated 2012-05-14 13:40:57-04

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) – The woman accused of running over two men in Shockoe Bottom, killing one of them, was arraigned in a Richmond courtroom today. Today 36-year-old Jennifer Slemp was formally charged with felony hit and run charges in the accident that killed 25-year old David Boyd.

Slemp, 36, made her way into the John Marshall Court Building early Monday morning.  She appeared briefly in front of Circuit Court Judge Robert Pustilnik.  The Richmond woman is facing felony charges for allegedly hitting and killing David Boyd, 25, in the early hours of April 21.  The accident happened along 14th and Canal Streets in Shockoe Bottom.

 Court documents indicate the Honda Accord Slemp was driving hit Boyd and another man, after a fight the men were trying to break up spilled out into the streets.  Court documents also indicate Slemp's vehicle struck both men in the head.

CBS 6 Legal Analyst Todd Stone says this is not an open and shut case.

"They are going to try and figure the culpability of her, whether she was under the influence of alcohol, whether she just panicked?" explained Stone.  "What exactly happened with her, to determine her punishment if she is convicted."

Jennifer Slemp, along with attorney Paul Kunberger left the courthouse, refusing to speak on camera.  Kunberger said he did not feel comfortable talking about the case at this time.

The prosecution did not object to Jennifer Slemp remaining free on $5,000 bond previously posted. 

If Slemp were found guilty of felony hit and run, she could be sentenced for up to 10 years in prison.  Her next court appearance is set for June 7 at 9:00 a.m.