On January 18, 2024, Dava Jayenel Turney, 36, from Kennard, Texas, was involved in a tragic accident while driving under the influence. At around 9:20 PM, Turney was driving northbound on State Highway 19 in a 2012 Buick Enclave when she failed to maintain her lane and struck a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado.
The Silverado was being driven by Esperanza Lafreniere Alfred, 78, of Houston, who tragically lost her life at the scene near the intersection of State Highway 19 and FM 231.
A Life Remembered
According to Alfred’s obituary, she was a mother of three children and had earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Alfred took great pride in her work as a journeyman carpenter before retiring. She was also known for her deep Catholic faith and her love for spending time with her family, especially her children, and her passion for building houses.
Turney Pleads Guilty to Intoxicated Manslaughter
On Monday, Dava Turney pleaded guilty to the charge of intoxicated manslaughter. She was sentenced to 10 years of probation. As part of her sentence, she will also be required to enter a felony punishment substance abuse facility immediately.
Turney was booked into the Houston County Jail under the second-degree felony charge of intoxicated manslaughter, which is a much more severe offense than a standard DWI (Driving While Intoxicated). The police report from the accident revealed that an officer noticed the smell of alcohol in Turney’s vehicle.
Texas Penalties for Intoxicated Manslaughter
Intoxicated manslaughter is considered a second-degree felony in Texas, with serious penalties. A conviction can result in 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. In addition to imprisonment, the court may also order community service or require the offender to attend a substance abuse facility, as was the case with Turney.