Driver in Pepperdine Student Murders Denied Bail Reduction for Karen Read Attorney
LOS ANGELES – Fraser Bohm, the driver accused of murdering four Pepperdine University students in a high-speed crash last year, was denied a reduction in his $4 million bail on Monday, despite seeking funds to retain attorney William Jackson – recently successful in the Karen Read case. A judge determined Bohm had not demonstrated sufficient grounds for lowering bail, according to court records.
The decision comes as Bohm faces four counts of murder stemming from the October 2023 crash on the pacific Coast Highway, where prosecutors allege he was driving 104 mph when his BMW struck the students, who were walking home.Bohm’s defense team argued a reduced bail was necessary to secure Jackson, whose legal strategies led to the acquittal of Read, charged with the death of her Boston police officer boyfriend. The case has drawn national attention, particularly given Jackson’s high profile and the complexities surrounding the alleged circumstances of the crash.
Bohm’s former attorney previously claimed video evidence suggested he was being chased by another driver in a road rage incident prior to the collision. However, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office maintains ther is no evidence to support this claim.
Jackson, speaking after Monday’s hearing, stated the judge’s decision would not deter the defense and that his team is “looking forward to our moment … to get the truth out.” Bohm’s next court appearance is scheduled for October 8.The four students killed in the crash were identified as Deslyn Williams,Niamh Rolston,and two others whose names have not been widely released.
