TITLE:
Dallas Woman's Sentence Weighed After SMU Student's Fatal Crash
META:
Testimony continues in the trial of Lynlee Pollis, found guilty of intoxication manslaughter after a crash that killed an SMU student and injured another passenger.
EXCERPT:
The trial for Lynlee Pollis continued as the jury considers her sentence following a fatal crash in 2023 that killed SMU student Honor Wallace. Emotional testimonies highlighted the tragedy's impact on both families.
ALT:
A courtroom scene showing Lynlee Pollis during her trial, where she faces sentencing for her involvement in a deadly crash.
ARTICLE:
Testimony progressed Wednesday in the sentencing phase of Lynlee Pollis' trial, who was found guilty in a September 2023 crash that resulted in the death of 19-year-old Southern Methodist University student, Honor Wallace, and left another passenger injured.
The jury convicted Pollis of intoxication manslaughter and intoxication assault earlier this week. They are now deliberating her punishment, which could reach up to 20 years for the manslaughter charge and 10 years for assault.
The emotional testimony began Tuesday, highlighting the significant loss experienced by Wallace's family. Her mother shared that Honor was fluent in French and Spanish and had aspirations to become a lawyer. Additionally, a Dallas police investigator provided details about Pollis' social media presence, which included references to alcohol; notably, she had created an Instagram account for her dog named Tequila, citing it as her favorite drink.
Pollis' father also took the stand, recounting his daughter's challenges post-accident and the emotional toll of losing her mother a year prior. Defense attorneys questioned him regarding Pollis' character and support network, portraying her as a good person with a solid group of friends and church community.
During cross-examination, prosecutors stressed the irreversible loss of life for the Wallace family, emphasizing that Pollis would eventually regain her freedom while they would not see their daughter again. Pollis' father acknowledged the poor decisions made by his daughter on the day of the collision but insisted she did not intend to crash into Wallace's vehicle.
He testified about his strict parenting regarding alcohol use, admitting Pollis began drinking in college. While he acknowledged her bad decisions, he maintained that she is “not a bad person” and still has merits to offer.
The defense presented several character witnesses, including Jack Dovey, who described Pollis as responsible. Heidi Taylor, a church friend, highlighted her kindness and dedication, stating that Pollis now relies on friends for transportation and does not consume alcohol anymore.
Evidence presented during the trial indicated that Pollis was traveling 70 mph in a 35 mph zone and ran a red light on the North Central Expressway service road near Monticello Avenue before colliding with Wallace's vehicle. Expert testimony revealed her blood alcohol concentration was nearly four times the legal limit.
More witnesses are expected to testify before the jury deliberates on Punishment.