Controversial Evidentiary Exclusion Leads to Split Verdict in High-Profile Boating Under the Influence Case in South Carolina
A high-profile boating under the influence case in South Carolina has resulted in a split verdict, leaving victims rights advocates disappointed. The controversial exclusion of key evidence has been the focal point of this case, with many believing that it could have led to a more comprehensive guilty verdict.
In this case, 57-year-old Tracy Gordon of Elgin, S.C. was acquitted of charges of boating under the influence resulting in death and boating under the influence resulting in great bodily injury. This decision left the Kiser family, who lost 68-year-old Stanley Kiser and saw Shawn Kiser losing her leg in the tragic crash, in disappointed disbelief.
However, there was a glimmer of justice as the jury found Gordon guilty of reckless homicide by operation of a boat. This verdict came just hours before the fourth anniversary of the crash.
The incident occurred when Gordon’s boat collided with the pontoon boat carrying Stanley, Shawn, and their daughter, Morgan Kiser, near Susie Ebert Island on Lake Murray. Shawn recounted how her husband sacrificed himself by pushing her out of harm’s way, but unfortunately, he was fatally injured by the propellers of Gordon’s boat.
As per the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) incident report, Gordon failed a field sobriety test at the scene and later refused to submit to a breathalyzer examination. A blood sample was obtained through a search warrant, and Gordon was charged with three counts of boating under the influence.
However, the blood draw became one of the most contentious issues during the trial, leading to the exclusion of key evidence. This exclusion has left victims rights advocates seething and questioning the validity of the verdict.
This case has gained significant attention due to its high-profile nature and the tragic loss of life. Advocates for victims’ rights believe that the exclusion of evidence has prevented a more comprehensive guilty verdict and a sterner probable sentence for Tracy Gordon.
As this is a developing story, further updates and developments are expected.
