Conviction Restored For Man In Crash That Killed 12-Year-Old Boy

Richard Roth's conviction was overturned because of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on tribal jurisdiction. Because the Supreme Court clarified its decision and said the State of Oklahoma can prosecute non-natives who commit crimes against Native victims, Roth's conviction and sentence can stand.

Friday, March 24th 2023, 5:52 pm

By: News On 6

WAGONER COUNTY, Okla. -

After 10 years, the parents of a little boy killed by a suspected drunk driver now have some measure of justice.

Richard Roth was convicted of killing 12-year-old Billy Lord as he was riding his bike home from a youth group event in 2013.

A Wagoner County jury found Roth guilty of manslaughter and leaving the scene and he was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

But, because the victim was Native American, Roth's conviction was overturned because of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on tribal jurisdiction.

Then the Supreme Court clarified its decision and said the State of Oklahoma can prosecute non-natives who commit crimes against Native victims.

Now the appeals court said Roth's conviction and sentence can stand.