The driver involved in a fatal crash that occurred on June 11 has been arrested and is now facing multiple charges, including vehicular homicide and reckless driving. Ignacio Cruz Mendoza, a 47-year-old Mexican citizen, was found to be driving without a valid driver’s license at the time of the incident, according to the Colorado State Patrol.
Mendoza, who had an active file in the Commercial Driver’s License Information System, did not possess a valid U.S. or commercial driver’s license. Furthermore, it was revealed that he did not have a valid driver’s license from Mexico either. Despite these circumstances, Mendoza was employed by Monique Trucking, an interstate shipping company based in Indio, California.
Investigations have also revealed that Mendoza is in the United States illegally and has been removed from or voluntarily left the country on 16 occasions since 2002. Additionally, his driving record shows a previous conviction in 2022 for speeding and operating without required equipment in Pennsylvania.
Mendoza was taken into custody on June 11 and subsequently charged with vehicular homicide, vehicular assault, reckless driving, and driving a commercial vehicle without a commercial license. On June 18, he appeared in court, and his next hearing is scheduled for July 31. He is currently being held at Jefferson County Jail on a $50,000 bail.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers have reviewed Mendoza’s arrest information and lodged a detainer with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office to be notified of his release. Mendoza’s immigration status and previous removals from the country raise further concerns regarding his presence in the United States.
This incident highlights the issue of individuals driving without valid licenses and the potential dangers associated with such actions. The case also raises questions about the hiring practices of Monique Trucking, as Mendoza was employed despite not having the necessary licenses to operate a commercial vehicle.
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It is important to remember that reckless driving can have serious consequences, not only for the driver but also for innocent victims. If you or someone you know has been affected by reckless driving, there are resources available to help. One such resource is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which provides information on safe driving practices, statistics on traffic accidents, and resources for victims of reckless driving. Their website, http://www.nhtsa.gov, offers valuable information and support for those seeking assistance or wanting