In a recent trial held at the Dallas County Criminal District Attorney's Office, Derrick Hall of Duncanville faced charges of manslaughter in a tragic incident that took the life of his 17-year-old son, Derrick Hall II. The defendant has been found guilty and sentenced to 8 years in prison by a unanimous decision of the jury. The Grand Prairie Police Department investigated the case.
Lead prosecutor Leah Dintino, along with her team, including 2nd Chair Alex Dobiyanski and 3rd Chair Taylor Volesky, worked tirelessly to present a compelling case to the court. The prosecution was supported by DA Investigators Victor Vasquez, Garrick Whaley, and Ron Cathcart, as well as DA Victim Advocate Melinda Shelton.
The incident in question occurred in 2021, as Derrick Hall was driving his two sons and three of their friends down Interstate-20 in Grand Prairie. According to evidence presented in court, Hall was operating his vehicle at speeds exceeding 96 mph while weaving through traffic. Tragically, he lost control of the car, resulting in a devastating crash that led to the loss of his son's life and injuries to the other children in the car.
Throughout the trial, the jury was presented with a wealth of evidence, including photographs of the wreckage, data from the vehicle, and an almost two-hour-long interview with the defendant. During the interview, Hall attempted to shift blame onto his sons and provided false information regarding the circumstances of the accident.
During the punishment phase of the trial, the jury was provided with insights into Hall's history of abusive behavior towards his wife and son. The jury described the defendant as a narcissist. In light of these factors, they rejected probation and, instead, sentenced Derrick Hall to 8 years in prison.
