Tad Alan Dennis Macomb firefighter jailed on DUI murder charge 112415

“This poor girl never had a chance. As a father of three, I can’t imagine what the family is going through,” Smith said. “This defendant took all the joy away from this family and instead replaced it with heartache.”  — Macomb County Prosecuting Attorney Eric Smith

Remembering Diana on Facebook

From Macomb Daily: 

A 44-year-old Warren firefighter was charged in November with second-degree murder for a September head-on crash in Sterling Heights that killed a 17-year-old girl.

Tad Dennis ended his booze cruise here. Photo credit Mike Campbell WWJ Newsradio 950

Tad Alan Dennis of Sterling Heights appeared via video feed for arraignment at the 41A District Court in Sterling Heights where he was also charged with drunken driving causing death for the death of Diana Pozderca of Sterling Heights.

Judge Michael Maceroni rejected Assistant Macomb Prosecutor William Cataldo’s request that Dennis be held without bond. Maceroni allowed him to be released on a $500,000 personal bond, adding the bond may be reviewed as Dennis further recuperates.

“These are horrible charges, with tragic consequences,” Maceroni said from the bench, but added: “There doesn’t appear to be a risk of flight, not at this juncture anyway.”

Diana Pozderca killed by Warren firefighter Tad Dennis who police charged with DUI.

Dennis sat in a chair with his hands folded across his lap and answered questions loudly.

His wife and in-laws attended the hearing.

Dennis’ attorney, Steven Rabaut, told the judge his client is in no condition to operate a motor vehicle. Dennis suffered numerous broken bones that required multiple surgeries and faces additional operations, and takes 14 prescription medications, Rabaut said, adding Dennis is a highly decorated firefighter with no criminal history.

A makeshift memorial came together along Plumbrook Road at the site of the accident where 17 year old Diana Pozderca was killed. (File photo by Ray Skowronek – Macomb Daily)

“Mr. Dennis is fully aware that he will be charged in this matter,” Rabaut said in court.

Rabaut further said Dennis was in no position to drive or try to flee, saying if he could travel, “he would have been gone by now.”

Rabaut declined further comment to reporters outside of court. ….MORE