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MOUNT PLEASANT — The death of 16-year-old Brandon Aiken in Sanpete County last November has now resulted in criminal charges against three adults.
When Aiken was found dead Nov. 15, the community was left in shock. He died from intoxication and exposure to the cold less than a month from his 17th birthday.
“There are a lot of times that this type of behavior begins as fun and games and it turns into a funeral, and we can’t stand for that,” said Sanpete County Attorney Brody Keisel.
That is why Keisel is pursuing charges against three people: Fred Meyer, 27; Sarah Eliason, 27; and Tommy Nielson,18, have been charged with reckless endangerment, contributing to the delinquency of a minor and furnishing alcohol to a minor.
Keisel said all three should have known they couldn't drink with a teenager.
“It is absolutely prohibited where common sense is not employed and where we end up with tragic consequences,” Keisel said.
The investigation found that after drinking, for some reason, Aiken started walking down a creek bed. His body was found the next day.
Keisel hopes adults and teens alike will learn from this tragedy.
“A lot of people want to go out and drink and have fun and party, but this is a young man that lost his life," Keisel said. "And the consequences with his family will go on for many, many years. He doesn’t get another chance."
The three defendants have not been arrested, but will answer to the charges in court. Their first hearing in the case will be March 19. If convicted, they could each face a year in jail.
