‘Egregious:’ Bond set at $1 million for driver suspected in Boise hit-and-run crashes
Ada County prosecutors on Monday secured a “significant bond” in the case of a man believed to be responsible for hit-and-run crashes Saturday night on Main Street in downtown Boise because of the “egregious facts of this case.”
Ashley Wardle, a legal intern for the Ada County Prosecutor’s Office, said in court that 46-year-old Jacob Miller ran a red light at up to 80 mph at the intersection of Main and 11th streets, striking two female pedestrians in a crosswalk and hospitalizing them with life-threatening injuries. She said Miller continued to drive downtown, hitting curbs and other vehicles, and narrowly avoiding a bicyclist.
He crashed into another vehicle over 3 miles away and was apprehended, Wardle told the court.
Fourth District Magistrate Judge Susan Clark set Jacob Miller’s bond at $1 million. At this time, the Boise resident faces two felony counts for leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in injury or death. Under Idaho law, he could face up to five years in prison on each count.
“The irresponsible actions of this individual caused serious injuries to two of our community members,” Boise Police Capt. Jim Quackenbush said in a news release Sunday. “We thank the many witnesses who acted quickly to provide immediate assistance and all those who have come forward with information on this tragic event.”
The two women remained in the hospital Monday, according to the Boise Police Department. Wardle said in court that the first victim was thrown at least 15 feet after being struck and that the second was stuck on Miller’s car for several blocks, finally falling off when he swerved to avoid another vehicle.
Wardle said Miller stopped after crashing into a vehicle near the intersection of Parkcenter Boulevard and Pennsylvania Street. He was detained by four to six bystanders at first, she said, and was “combative” with officers during his arrest. Wardle said Miller also attempted to kick a nurse once he was transported to a hospital before being taken to the Ada County Jail.
Police said they are still waiting on test results on Miller regarding whether any alcohol or drugs were in his system.
If Miller can post bond, which would amount to $100,000 if he uses a bail bonds business, he’ll be required to undergo drug and alcohol monitoring; restricted from driving a vehicle for “any reason whatsoever”; and prohibited from drinking or using drugs, and from going into bars or liquor stores, Clark said.
When asked by the judge whether he understood those restrictions, Miller responded, “Yes, your honor.” His next court appearance is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. July 10 at the Ada County Courthouse, according to online records.
Anyone who witnessed the incident and hasn’t spoken with police yet, along with anyone whose vehicle was damaged, is asked to contact Ada County Dispatch at 208-377-6790.
