Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 07/07/04

Contact person(s):

Media Coordinator, Donna Edwards - 565-3099 Media Spokesperson, Chief Deputy Larry Scoufos Deputy District Attorney: William J. Brockley

Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, California

HEREFORD PLEADS GUILTY

Today Harvey Hereford entered pleas of guilty to charges filed against him as a result of an April 11, 2004, driving under the influence accident that left one bicyclist dead and another critically injured. Alan Liu was killed and Jill Mason has been paralyzed after they were struck from behind by Hereford’s vehicle as they rode their bikes on Highway 12 near Oakmont. Hereford’s blood/alcohol level was determined to be .29%, over three times the legal limit.

In addition to pleading guilty to a charge of vehicular manslaughter for the death of Mr. Liu, Hereford also entered guilty pleas to driving under the influence and personally inflicting great bodily injury, causing paralysis to Ms. Mason and driving without a valid driver’s license. Sentencing is scheduled for September 13th in the courtroom of Superior Court Judge Elaine Rushing. Mr. Hereford faces a maximum state prison commitment of nine years and eight months. If committed to prison, he must serve 85% of his sentence.

California Highway Patrol Investigator Robert Mota was the lead investigator in the case. William J. Brockley was the assigned prosecutor and was assisted by District Attorney Investigator Roz Eliaser.