Driver charged in crash that left LAPD officer critically injured
A Pacoima woman accused of slammed her vehicle into a Los Angeles police motorcycle officer, severely injuring him, pleaded not guilty Tuesday to a charge of driving under the influence of drugs.
Qaneak Shaney Cobb, 33, faces a felony DUI charge, and prosecutors allege that she was under the influence of cocaine in her Chevrolet Blazer when she rear-ended the officer as he was stopped at a traffic light Saturday in North Hollywood.
The collision sent the officer and his motorcycle into the rear of the car in front of him, crushing him, officials said.
At a police commission meeting Tuesday, LAPD Chief Charlie Beck described the officer’s injuries as “catastrophic” and said the 26-year department veteran, who officials have not identified, remains in extremely critical condition.
“We hope and fervently pray that he will survive,” Beck said.
Prosecutors say Cobb has had previous run-ins with the law including convictions on charges of grand theft and drug possession. Her bail was set at $150,000, according to CBS Los Angeles, and she faces more than 10 years in prison if convicted on all charges.
Twitter: @josephserna
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