PLYMOUTH, Mass. — A South Shore police officer accused of causing a multi-vehicle crash that left one person seriously injured has pleaded not guilty.
25 Investigates reported back on January 11, former Officer Richard Perry allegedly crossed the double yellow lines twice while under the influence of alcohol in his Jeep.
He passed a tow truck first, then attempted to pass a Hyundai Elantra. He instead crashed head on with a Honda Civic.
[ South Shore police officer placed on leave after multi-car wreck with serious injuries ]
The driver of Hyundai Elantra was not injured. The driver of the Civic, 24-year-old Grace Owen, suffered multiple injuries according to the prosecution. She had to be extricated from the wreckage following the collision.
“This has impacted our lives greatly and it’s been devastating, just trying to keep her spirits up and keep her focused on her recovery,” said Alisa Owen, the victim’s mother.
“She had a brain bleed she had a broken femur, a dislocated hip socket a broken pelvis, broken ribs and neck fractures and also a broken hand,” said Owen.
Perry faced a judge Wednesday, wearing a neck brace, as he pleaded not guilty.
Prosecutors allege that prior to the crash, Perry had been drinking at Rafferty’s Pub in downtown Marshfield before getting behind the wheel. His blood alcohol content was measured at approximately 0.20 — more than twice the legal limit — about 45 minutes after the crash, according to the prosecution.
Perry has been charged with operating under the influence causing serious bodily injury, reckless operation of a motor vehicle, a marked lanes violation, and speeding greater than reasonable and proper.
He has since been placed on administrative leave.
Perry and his defense team previously attempted to enter a plea agreement; however, a judge declined to accept it because the victim was not present to deliver an impact statement.
Perry’s attorney didn’t say much outside of court, but he did tell the judge Perry is undergoing rehab for his drinking.
Meanwhile Grace’s mom just hopes she can make a full recovery and get back to doing what she loves as an aesthetician.
“Grace has a long road ahead of her, she’s making slow but steady progress, but this has greatly, impacted obviously her life and it’s going to be a long road before she can get back to living her 24-year-old best life,” Alisa Owen, her mother, told Boston 25.
Owen’s mother said her daughter works at Sephora, loves makeup, and enjoys spending time with family.
Perry was released on personal recognizance, and he cannot drive now without a license or drink alcohol while he’s on probation.
Perry’s next court date is March 30.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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