The man, who admitted driving at an excessive speed was the cause of a crash that killed two pedestrians in New Milford last year, has now been found guilty on two counts of driving under the influence.
Brett Bennett, 41, Kingsley, pleaded guilty on March 1 to two counts of involuntary manslaughter for the deaths of Brian Thomas and Edwin Turner III on Feb. 25, 2012. Each count carries a maximum sentence of up to five years.
Mr. Bennett admitted that he was driving about 80 mph in a 35-mph speed zone when he struck and killed the two men as they were crossing Route 11 just after 2 a.m.
But Mr. Bennett, who was also charged with driving under the influence, elected to go to trial on that count. At the March 1 plea hearing, the DUI count was separated from the manslaughter case.
The DUI trial was heard by President Judge Kenneth Seamans with the prosecution presenting its side of the case in mid-March.
On Thursday, it was the defense's turn. Mr. Bennett, as well as a medical doctor, had been expected to take the stand. But no witnesses took the stand. Following a 10-minute recess, Judge Seamans issued guilty verdicts to both DUI counts.
Each count is punishable by up to six months in jail. Mr. Bennett is scheduled to be sentenced on April 18.
Contact the writer: swilson@independentweekender.com