FARMINGTON -- A Franklin County Superior Court justice today will sentence a Lincoln man who was found guilty in May of allowing an intoxicated friend drive his car prior to it crashing and bursting into flames, killing the friend.

Ryan Hurd, 23, was found guilty of aggravated operating under the influence/accomplice liability but innocent of the more serious charge of manslaughter in the death of Terry "TJ" Richardson Jr., 34, of Dover-Foxcroft.

Hurd claimed during his trial that Richardson was driving when the accident occurred on Route 27 in New Vineyard at about 1:15 a.m. on Oct. 17, 2007. Hurd's speeding car went out of control, struck a utility pole and tree stump, flipped over and burst into flames.

The prosecution argued that Hurd was driving.

Being an accomplice carries the same penalties as being the principal person involved in an aggravated OUI. The charge applies to an intoxicated person who has facilitated, assisted or aided another intoxicated person in committing the crime of OUI. The maximum sentence is five years in prison or $2,000 fine.

A third man, Chad Bernier, 30, of Medway was critically injured and testified in court he thought Hurd was the driver. The defense argued that Richardson was behind the wheel because Hurd was too drunk to drive.

No physical evidence was recovered from the crash that identified either man as the driver, and according to trial testimony, Bernier was too intoxicated to clearly remember.

The sentencing has been delayed numerous times. Justice Michaela Murphy is presiding.

Betty Jespersen -- 778-6991

bjespersen@centralmaine.com