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Bishop Charged with Manslaughter And DUI In Cyclist’s Death

January 9th, 2015 by WCBC Radio

Baltimore's new city state's attorney said Friday that an Episcopal Church bishop will face several charges in connection with the death of a bicyclist over the holidays. New city state's attorney Marilyn Mosby, who was sworn into office Thursday, announced the charges against Bishop Heather Cook, who authorities said hit bicyclist Thomas Palermo on Dec. 27 in the 5700 block of Roland Avenue. Cook was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DUI, texting while driving and leaving the scene of an accident. According WBAL her blood-alcohol level was allegedly .22, nearly three times the legal limit. Police said Cook initially left the scene but later returned. Palermo, 41, was taken to Sinai Hospital, where he died. An arrest warrant is being issued to take Cook into custody. Mosby said Friday that she met with Palermo's family over the course of the investigation, which she said has been handled as any other case would be. Court records show, in 2010, Cook was given probation before judgment on a drunken driving charge on the Eastern Shore. Her blood-alcohol level in that incident was more than three times the legal limit. Days after Palermo's death, hundreds of cycling enthusiasts held a memorial ride to honor his life. Several local bike groups have also called for more safety measures for bikers throughout the community.

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