Aggravated DUI Suspect Makes Initial Court Appearance

The western Illinois man charged with aggravated DUI drugs resulting in death made his initial appearance in Effingham County Circuit Court Wednesday morning.

60-year-old John H. Adams of Bluffs is charged in the October 17 crash that resulted in the death of Brianne Martin of Effingham. Adams was in the turnaround in the median along I-57 north of Effingham, but the rear of the trailer of his semi was still on the roadway. The trailer was struck by Martin's vehicle. Toxicology tests showed the presence of a cocaine metabolite in Adams' system the day of the crash. The charge alleges the presence of the metabolite in Adams' system resulted from his use of cocaine prior to driving.

Adams told Judge Kimberly Koester that he could not afford his own attorney and requested the appointment of the public defender to represent him. After Adams filled out a form documenting his assets, Judge Koester granted the appointment of either Public Defender Scott Schmidt or Assistant Public Defender Janet Fowler. He's due back in court on December 8 for his first appearance with his attorney.

Adams remains in Effingham County Jail under $75,000 bond. His charge is a Class 2 felony, punishable by between three and 12 years in prison, although probation is also an option.