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7/6/2007 10:16:00 AM
Crystal man gets probation
Helmer sentenced to probation in brother’s death
Luke Stier
Staff Writer
STANTON - A Crystal man charged with killing his brother during a drunken parking lot altercation won't spend any more time behind bars.
Michael Eugene Helmer stood alongside his attorney, John Raven of Greenville, before Judge Charles Miel for sentencing in 8th Judicial Circuit Court on Thursday. Miel sentenced the 44-year-old to spend the next five years on probation, two years on an alcohol breath monitor and to pay $3,570 in court fines and fees.
Helmer also was sentenced to 38 days in jail and received credit for the 38 days he already has served.
On May 24, he pleaded guilty to attempted involuntary manslaughter, a count that is punishable by up to five years in prison. Helmer originally was charged with involuntary manslaughter, which has a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison.
On Jan. 11, he was involved in a fight with his brother, Randall James Helmer, 50, of Crystal outside the Wet Spot bar in Crystal. Michael Helmer struck his older brother in the head, causing him to fall and strike his head on the ground. He was pronounced dead on arrival at Carson City Hospital.
The brothers were intoxicated at the time of the incident, according to police reports.
"It's too bad," Miel told the court. "It shows the effect that alcohol can have and I think Mr. Helmer has learned that."
Michael Helmer's voice cracked as he spoke before being sentenced.
"I didn't just lose a brother on Jan. 11. I lost a friend," he said. "With each birthday and graduation that my niece has, it is a reminder of how precious life is."
The brothers' parents sat in the front row of the courtroom with tears in their eyes.
"I would just like to thank my parents for the rock that they are," Helmer said. "I am so sorry to my parents but I have never been so proud to be a part of a family like this."
"Obviously this was a difficult case for all involved," said Montcalm County Prosecutor Andrea Krause. "We feel that this is an appropriate outcome for the case."
One of several terms of Helmer's probation is that he cannot consume alcohol.
"Mr. Helmer is going to honor his brother by really showing that he can turn his life around and that the effects of alcohol can be overcome," Raven said. "He will beat this addiction."
Miel also had words of encouragement before he left the courtroom.
"Good luck," he told Helmer. "I assume we won't see you back in here."
Editor Luke Stier can be reached at lstier@staffordgroup.com or (616) 754-9303 ext. 3065.
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