Crime & Safety

Trial Date Set for Suspect in Lake Lanier Boating Deaths

Paul Bennett of Cumming is reportedly scheduled for trial May 20, 2013. He was indicted in connection with the deaths of Griffin and Jake Prince of Buford.

The man who has been indicted in Hall County in connection with the boating deaths of two Gwinnett youths at Lake Lanier has a trial date, according to a media report.

The Gainesville Times has reported that Paul Bennett, a Cumming resident, will face trial May 20, 2013. Also, the next motions hearing reportedly is set for January 31.

Bennett was indicted for homicide and boating under the influence in connection with the boating collision on June 18, 2012, that killed Griffin and Jake Prince of Buford. Authorities say Bennett's boat collided with a pontoon boat driven by the youths' father. Griffin Prince's body was recovered more than a week after the accident.

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A Hall County grand jury in August indicted Bennett for eight counts of homicide by vessel in the first degree (four counts for each of the two Prince boys), two counts of boating under the influence, two counts of reckless operation of a vessel, and one count of violation of duty to render assistance and identify vessel and self.

The youths had a memorial service in Suwanee in July.

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The Prince brothers' deaths, and another boating accident in 2012 that killed Kile Glover of Atlanta, produced a wide outcry over boating safety at Lake Lanier. Glover was the stepson of superstar entertainer Usher.

See also:

  • Prince Funeral: 'Family Can Be Together Forever'

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