A Goodsprings judge has set bail at $25,000 for Natalie Muriel Rodriguez, who is accused of driving under the influence in a fatal Interstate 15 crash that killed her 7-year-old daughter. Rodriguez, appearing remotely from the Clark County Detention Center while in a wheelchair, faces charges of driving under the influence resulting in death and two counts of child abuse or neglect, according to court records. Justice of the Peace Larry Shupe presided over the proceedings, reading Rodriguez her charges and rights.
The crash occurred on October 4 when Rodriguez was driving her Chevrolet Tahoe north on I-15, between Jean and Sloan. Her SUV veered onto the dirt shoulder, struck two construction barrels, and then crashed into a concrete wall, overturning the vehicle. Her daughter, identified by relatives as 7-year-old Aislinne Ramos, and her son were in the back seat. Aislinne was found in the roadway and died at the scene; troopers reported she was not wearing a seat belt. The Clark County coroner’s office has not yet formally identified the child. Rodriguez and her son sustained minor injuries and were taken to a hospital.
Prosecutor Michael Giles told the court there was a high likelihood of conviction for Rodriguez, who admitted to driving and using marijuana before the incident. Giles stated that investigating officers believe she was impaired. Blood tests showed levels of methamphetamine and marijuana delta nine at concentrations "10 times the old standard per se limit." Giles requested bail be set at $100,000, arguing for the higher amount due to the severity of the alleged offense and the evidence.
However, public defender Jessica Smith-Peterson argued against the $100,000 bail, stating it would effectively act as a detention order. She requested a bail amount of $20,000, emphasizing that Rodriguez had no criminal record beyond a recent speeding ticket and had been a Nevada resident for less than four months. Smith-Peterson stated, "We are not trying to negate what has happened," but aimed to ensure fairness and allow Rodriguez the opportunity to be out of custody to manage her case and grieve.
Smith-Peterson further highlighted that Rodriguez would have support if released, with her boyfriend and mother present in the courtroom. She also noted that Rodriguez has an active phone number, which is a requirement for house arrest. The defense attorney underscored the profound suffering Rodriguez likely experiences as the mother of the deceased child.
During the investigation, Rodriguez denied using illegal drugs such as methamphetamine or cocaine. However, the Nevada Highway Patrol arrest report indicated that she "broke eye contact and looked away" when a trooper questioned her about those substances.
In addition to the $25,000 bail, Justice of the Peace Shupe imposed several conditions for Rodriguez's release. These include high-level electronic monitoring, regular drug testing, and a prohibition against driving. Rodriguez is scheduled to return to court in December.