A Missouri woman who participated in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, and recently received a pardon from President Trump, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for causing a fatal drunk driving crash in 2022, reported USA Today. Emily Hernandez, from Sullivan, Missouri, was arrested in January 2022 after a crash on Interstate 44 in Franklin County that killed Victoria Wilson, 32, and seriously injured her husband Ryan Wilson, 36. The crash occurred just days before Hernandez pleaded guilty to her role in the Capitol riot. Victoria Wilson left behind two sons, aged 10 and 15. In November 2024, Hernandez admitted guilt in connection to the crash and faced charges of DWI causing death and serious physical injury.
According to KDSK, Hernandez expressed remorse during her court appearance, saying she prays daily for the victim's family. That same report also publicized the Defendant's Sentencing Memorandum and William Merry Letter re: Emily Hernandez.
The full scope of Hernandez's legal troubles came to light through a Newsweek story, which revealed she was driving at twice the legal alcohol limit on the wrong side of the highway when the fatal crash occurred.
The incident has gained additional attention as Hernandez becomes the fourth pardoned Capitol rioter to face legal troubles following Trump's controversial blanket pardon of more than 1,500 riot participants. Her original Capitol riot sentence included 45 days in prison and a $500 fine for stealing part of Nancy Pelosi's office sign, Newsweek reported. A truck driver who witnessed the crash described it as explosive, with Hernandez driving approximately 60 mph in the wrong direction.
The situation has sparked broader concerns about pardoned rioters, with other cases including Matthew Huttle, who was killed in a police confrontation; Andrew Taake, currently wanted for a child sex charge; and Daniel Ball, re-arrested on federal gun charges.
The impact of this tragedy was captured in a GoFundMe campaign organized by Victoria Wilson's sister, Angelia Ortiz, which shed light on the devastating aftermath of the crash. At the time of the accident, Ryan Wilson was hospitalized awaiting surgery while the couple's two children, Landon and Eli, stayed with their grandparents. The fundraiser, established as the sole legitimate campaign for the family, aimed to cover funeral expenses and Ryan's mounting medical bills.
The community showed support during services held at Midlawn Funeral Home in Union, Missouri, with public visitation and funeral services. Following surgery, doctors expressed optimism about Ryan's eventual full recovery, though they cautioned it would be a lengthy healing process due to the extensive nature of his injuries.
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