LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Prosecutors are not proceeding with driving under the influence charges against Christina Sorensen, 63, who is the North Las Vegas woman accused of being the driver in a crash that killed 9-year-old Sophia Sandoval back in August.
On Tuesday, Sorensen did not appear in court for a status check on her case. Her attorney, Ryan Hemlick, left before the court hearing.
"The state is not proceeding on this matter," said Chief Judge Kalani Hoo. "My understanding is that it's being referred to the City of North Las Vegas for prosecution."
Although the reason for why the case was dropped was not said in court, Sophia's father Dennis Sandoval told Channel 13 prosecutors did not find enough evidence Sorensen was driving under the influence in her toxicology report.
Hemlick told Channel 13 he did not receive the toxicology report for Sorensen because the case was denied. But he said he was not surprised prosecutors decided not to proceed with the case and felt this was not a DUI incident. He said this was a "tragic accident."
In August, Sorensen was arrested after a crash near Ann Road and Simmons Street. Her passenger was identified as 9-year-old Sophia Sandoval. According to North Las Vegas police, Sorensen failed several field sobriety tests but blew a .000 on a breathalyzer test.
The arrest report states there was probable cause to arrest Sorensen for being under the influence of narcotics, including prescription medication.
We spoke to Dr. Daliah Wachs about the impacts of narcotics on the body.
"We might pop an antihistamine or pop a muscle relaxant or pop a benzodiazepine for anxiety," said Dr. Wachs. "All of these can have effects on our brain, our hearing, our sight and our coordination."
We don't know if Sorensen was taking any medication or drugs before getting behind the wheel, but Dr. Wachs said any controlled substances would appear on a toxicology report.
Dennis Sandoval spoke only to Channel 13 about his daughter and how he is remembering her.
"She touched a lot of people," said Sandoval. "Sophia was just a vibrant light of my life. Since she's been gone, it's like my light's been turned out."
Watch the full interview with Dennis Sandoval and how he remembers his daughter:
Sandoval said Sorensen was his cousin and Sophia's aunt.
"I want justice for my daughter," said Sandoval. "Sophia Sandoval deserves justice."
Sandoval said Sophia loved cheerleading, shopping and was excited to begin fourth grade.
"I never got a chance to say goodbye to my daughter," said Sandoval.
Former Clark County District Attorney David Roger said this case will likely be refiled as a misdemeanor manslaughter.
"Lawmakers created this law to provide victims, relatives,at least some solace knowing that the criminal justice system has done something with the case," said Roger.
If Sorensen does face a misdemeanor, Roger said she could face a punishment of six months in jail or a $1000 fine.
