ROCHESTER -- A former Syracuse police officer will not have to go to state prison for a drunk driving crash where he badly injured two Liverpool teens.
Derek Backus was convicted of vehicular assault for being drunk when he struck the car the teens were driving on Route 57 in Clay in August of 2006. His case has been filled with legal maneuverings over the last couple of years related to a plea deal and potential sentencing.
The appellate division in Rochester released its decision late Friday, saying Backus does not have to serve time in state prison. Instead, his eight months in the Onondaga County Correctional Facility will satisfy his punishment.
The court pointed to Backus' improved behavior since sentencing. He has gone through rehab and maintained employment.
Click here to download and read the full text of Friday's appellate court decision.
