2008 Woodie Awards
DUI suspect due in court
Jennifer Tarantino
Issue date: 11/14/05 Section: News
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Worden is also being charged with a multiple victim enhancement because he allegedly crashed into and killed 18-year-old CSM student Jihan Abdel-Gawad, and 16-year-old Ashlee Prather on Oct. 16 while he was intoxicated.
Approximately two hours after the crash, Worden's blood alcohol content was twice the legal limit at 0.16, said Sgt. Pete Tokarski, Burlingame Police Department.
Worden appeared before the judge without an attorney during his first court date on Oct. 18.
He was appointed a private defender, said Steve Wagstaffe, San Mateo County chief deputy district attorney.
The private defender program provides competent legal representation in accordance with Constitutional requirements and state statuates to individuals determined to be indigent by the Court, according to the San Mateo County Bar Association.
"This program is meant for those who aren't able to necessarily afford an attorney," said Aaron Fitzgerald, San Mateo County Deputy District Attorney.
There is only a panel of private attorneys in San Mateo since there are no public defenders. These attorneys are the functional equivalent of a public defender.
"In this case, Mike Hroziencik, an attorney has been assigned to Worden's case," said Fitzgerald.
One week later on Oct. 26 Worden appeared in court with attorney Hroziencik, but did not enter a plea.
"Worden was not prepared to enter a plea because of his emotional state," said Hroziencik.
The next time in court, Worden must appear with his attorney, Hroziencik and enter a plea. Then, regardless of his plea, a preliminary hearing will be conducted sometime in late December, said Fitzgerald.
Meanwhile, Worden remains in custody at the San Mateo County Jail without bail, said Tokarski.
If convicted, Worden faces up to 13 years in state prison.