Missouri Governor Mike Parson expressed his 'deepest sympathy' to the family of a 5-year-old girl who was seriously injured in a drunken driving crash involving former Kansas City Chiefs assistant coach Britt Reid. Reid had been driving intoxicated at about 84 mph in a 65 mph zone when his Dodge truck collided with two cars near Arrowhead Stadium on Feb. 4, 2021.
Reid pleaded guilty to driving while intoxicated causing serious bodily injury and was initially sentenced to three years in prison. However, Governor Parson commuted Reid's sentence to house arrest, subject to conditions, which has sparked controversy and criticism.
The injured girl, Ariel Young, suffered a traumatic brain injury in the crash. The original sentence was deemed 'just' by Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, who highlighted Reid's history of legal issues, including a past stint in a drug treatment program.
Despite completing an intensive treatment program while in custody, Reid's release was met with backlash from various quarters, with critics arguing that the commutation favored someone with 'status, privilege, and connections.'
Governor Parson, a Chiefs fan and season ticket holder, clarified that no one associated with the team had requested the commutation. He expressed regret for any additional pain caused to the Young family and emphasized that his intention was not to exacerbate their suffering.
Reid's house arrest will continue until Oct. 31, 2025, with stipulations including regular meetings with a parole officer, counseling, and community service. The Chiefs have entered into a confidential agreement to cover Ariel's ongoing medical expenses and other costs related to the accident.
While Reid's attorney has stated that his focus is on maintaining sobriety and being present for his children, the decision to commute his sentence has raised questions about the fairness and equity of the legal system.
