Detroit Officer Charged In Crash That Killed Local Attorney

DETROIT — The Wayne County Prosecutor's Office has charged a Detroit police officer in connection with the death of 58-year-old attorney Clifford Woodards.

Teaira Iris Funderburg, 29, was arraigned Thursday in 36th District Court on charges of involuntary manslaughter and willful neglect of duty. If convicted, Funderburg could serve up to 15 years in prison for the more severe of the charges.

Funderburg was given a $100,000 bond. She is scheduled to appear in court again July 7 for a probable cause conference.

“Proper investigations take time and that is what we strive for in every case," Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy said. "After a thorough analysis of the evidence, the defendant has been charged. It’s true that Mr. Woodards was respected in his profession, but the facts and evidence are what caused us to charge in this case."

Woodards died on Feb. 8, when Funderburg ran a red light while on duty and crashed into a vehicle driven by Woodards, prosecutors said.

Her employment status with the department remains unclear, The Detroit News reported.