Judge Sentences Man to 6 Years for Traffic Fatality

By D.C. Witness Staff - February 11, 2019
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects |

A judge sentenced a murder defendant Feb. 8 to six years following the death of a USA Today journalist.

Daryl G. Alexander, 47, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter for his alleged role in the death of Oren Dorell at the corner of 13th Street and H Street, NE on June 8, 2018. Alexander apparently hit Dorell, who was riding a motorcycle, while driving under the influence of PCP and alcohol.

During the sentencing, DC Superior Court Judge Craig Iscoe said he would agree to follow recommended sentencing guidelines under a plea, which could range between 60 and 72 months.

After hearing victim impact statements and remarks from defense and prosecution, Judge Iscoe determined that 72 months was an appropriate sentence because of Alexander’s previous convictions for driving under the influence. He also cited Alexander’s decision to consume drugs knowing he would have to use a car.

“Your family will be able to see you again, his will not,” Judge Iscoe told Alexander. The courtroom was filled with members of Dorell and Alexander’s families, each seated on opposite sides of the courtroom.

According to court documents, Alexander drove to a Chinese restaurant in Southeast DC and placed a take-out order. He waited in his car, where he consumed alcohol and smoked a cigarette dipped in PCP. Shortly afterwards, Alexander was seen driving down H Street at a high rate of speed, and ran through a red light at an intersection. He ran over Dorell, who was driving a motorcycle at the time.  

Alexander said he blacked out due to drugs and he did not remember driving up H Street. However, court documents said police found Alexander, who was awake but unresponsive, in his car.