Deputy killer federally detained

Michael David Miller, 38, of Kountze, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Oct. 5, charging him with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person in the wake of a drunk driving incident that resulted in the death of an off-duty Jefferson County Deputy that was mowing his lawn, according to the office of U.S. Attorney Brit Featherston.

Miller appeared in federal court on Oct. 17, and was ordered to be detained pending a hearing.

According to information presented in court, on July 10, Miller was driving a vehicle on a rural road in the Fannett community when he allegedly failed to negotiate a turn while speeding causing the vehicle to strike a drainage ditch and land on a riding lawnmower being operated by an off-duty Jefferson County Sheriff’s Deputy.  The impact killed Deputy James Lee on impact.

According to law enforcement officers, Miller exhibited signs of intoxication and was arrested for the state offense of intoxication manslaughter. A firearm was found in the vehicle following the incident. Further investigation revealed Miller had previously been convicted of a crime of domestic violence and is prohibited from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.

If convicted, Miller faces up to 15 years in federal prison.