Missouri woman sentenced to 10 years in prison for deadly 2017 crash

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A woman was sentenced Monday in the Boone County courthouse to 10 years in prison connected to a 2017 deadly crash on Interstate 70.

Keaunia Brooks, of Florissant, Missouri, pleaded guilty to charges of first-degree involuntary manslaughter and second-degree assault in the death of Anitia Pierden.

State troopers say Brooks was driving on I-70 and crashed into Pierden's vehicle head-on after crossing the median near mile marker 118.

Troopers said a passenger in Brooks' vehicle told authorities she and Brooks smoked marijuana before the crash.

Investigators said Brooks had marijuana in her purse and a marijuana cigarette was located inside a vent in the car.

Brooks was recommended for 120 days of shock incarceration in prison. If she completes the program successfully, Brooks will be released on parole.

Assistant Boone County Prosecuting Attorney Jennifer Rodewald said the sentence punishes Brooks for her actions and allows her to re-enter the community.

"Nothing will bring Anitia Pierden back, or replace her to her many friends and loved ones. The sentence (Brooks) received will give her a glimpse of what prison looks like as a consequence of her actions, while also giving her the opportunity to be successful on probation in the community afterward."

Rodewald continued.

"When (Brooks) is placed on probation, she will still have a 10-year sentence hanging over her head to encourage her to take advantage of the opportunities that probation affords."

Editor's Note: This article has been updated to clarify Pierden was driving the other vehicle.