Driver of Semi-Trailer Charged With Six Felony Counts: Romeoville

ROMEOVILLE, IL — A truck driver from Raleigh, North Carolina faces six felony counts in Will County related to a DUI incident in November. Sherrard McKnight, 55, is charged with driving or otherwise being in control of a white Freightliner semi-trailer that was involved in a crash on Route 53 in Romeoville on Friday, Nov. 8. The crash inflicted serious injuries and potentially permanent disability on another person, and McKnight was determined to have a blood alcohol level higher than .08 at the time it occurred, according to court case files.

According to those same files, McKnight now faces two counts of aggravated driving under the influence, one count of operating a commercial vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, one count of operating a commercial vehicle with a measured alcohol concentration, and two counts of operating a commercial vehicle while in possession of alcohol. All six charges are class 4 felonies. A single class 4 felony carries a sentence of between one to three years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. This means that if found guilty on all counts, McKnight could potentially end up serving up to 18 years in prison and owing the state up to $150,000, depending on whether or not he receives the maximum sentences, and if the sentences are imposed consecutively or concurrently. McKnight's trial is still ongoing. All defendants are assumed innocent until proven guilty.

McKnight's arraignment is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3 in room 405 of the Will County Courthouse. According to the Will County Sheriff's office, his total bond amount was set at $175,000, and bail at $17,500.