Dutchess County District Attorney Anthony Parisi announced that Richard C. Rider, 47, pleaded guilty today before Dutchess County Court Judge Karen Edelman-Reyes to Vehicular Manslaughter in the First Degree, a Class C Felony, and Driving While Ability Impaired by the Combined Influence of Drugs, a Class E Felony.

District Attorney Anthony Parisi said, "This guilty plea holds Richard Rider accountable for the devastating consequences of choosing to get behind the wheel while impaired by drugs. One reckless decision claimed the life of Alijah Johnson and forever changed the lives of his loved ones. We remain committed to seeking justice for victims and ensuring that those who endanger our community through impaired driving are held fully accountable."