ANNAPOLIS (May 28, 2010) – Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) announced the sentencing of Jon Randall Martins, 42, of Glen Burnie, Md. for negligent homicide of a person by motor vessel while under the influence of alcohol. Martins entered a plea of guilty on May 20 to Judge Hackner of Anne Arundel County Circuit Court. Judge Hackner sentenced Martins to 5 years in jail and suspended all but 90 days to be served at the Anne Arundel County Detention Center.
The boating accident occurred on August 30, 2009 in Marley Creek, Anne Arundel County. Martins’ vessel struck a vessel driven by Richard John Hynson, 47, of Glen Burnie. Hynson died of his injuries. Martins had a blood alcohol content of 0.18.
“This tragedy is a reminder of the dangers of combining boating and alcohol,” said Colonel George F. Johnson IV, NRP Superintendant.
Maryland had 16 fatal boating accidents last year that resulted in 17 deaths, half of which involved alcohol or illegal drugs. Maryland has three boating fatalities this year, two in Somerset County and one in St. Mary’s County.
“Alcohol reduces reaction time and impairs judgment,” said Col. Johnson. “Boaters should refrain from the use of alcohol while operating vessels”.
Boaters are legally held to the same blood alcohol content limits as motor vehicle drivers.
Source: Maryland Natural Resources Police