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A Cody man was arrested and arraigned Monday on charges stemming from an Aug. 26 collision that resulted in the death of Powell resident Charles Wentz.
Steven Novakovich is being charged with two …
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A Cody man was arrested and arraigned Monday on charges stemming from an Aug. 26 collision that resulted in the death of Powell resident Charles Wentz.
Steven Novakovich is being charged with two felonies, including aggravated homicide by vehicle: driving while under the influence and driving under the influence/ bodily injury first offense. He is also charged with failing to conduct a turn that requires signal and safety.
If convicted of aggravated homicide by vehicle, Novakovich faces up to 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. DUI/bodily injury carries imprisonment of up to 10 years, and a fine of between $2,000 and $5,000.
According to an affidavit written by Wyoming State Trooper Brett Tillery, Novakovich allegedly turned left without signaling on U.S. Highway 14A near milepost 6.8 while following his girlfriend’s vehicle. He then collided with Wentz’s vehicle. Both Charles and his wife Diana had to be flown to Billings for care. Diana had to receive a hip socket replacement and stitches on her head. She also had fluid in her lungs which had to be drained before she was released. Charles died from his injuries on Sept. 1.
According to the affidavit, Novakovich told Tillery he drank one can of Busch Light and shots of rum earlier in the day. He was subjected to a field sobriety test on the scene and a breathalyzer recorded his BAC at 0.121%. Novakovich did not consent to a blood draw at the scene, but a warrant was later issued and a blood draw was taken.
Novakovich was released on pending charges for a first offense DUI and a citation for not wearing a seatbelt and failing to signal, these charges were later dismissed without prejudice. On Sept. 15 an arrest warrant was filed for Novakovich with the current charges.
Steven Novakovich was represented by Buffalo attorney Nick Beduhn during the arraignment and state by Park County District Attorney Bryan Skoric.
Novakovich is currently being held on a $50,000 cash or surety bond with a preliminary hearing scheduled for Sept. 29 at 10 a.m.
