Michael David Miller, 38, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Oct. 5, charging him with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.  Miller appeared in federal court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christine L. Stetson on Oct. 17 and was ordered to be detained pending a detention hearing.

According to information presented in court, on July 10, Miller was driving a vehicle on a rural road in the Fannett community when he allegedly failed to negotiate a turn while speeding, causing the vehicle to strike a drainage ditch and land on a riding lawnmower being operated by an off-duty Jefferson County Sheriff’s Deputy.  The impact killed Deputy James Lee on impact.

According to law enforcement officers, Miller exhibited signs of intoxication and was arrested for the state offense of intoxication manslaughter.  A firearm was found in the vehicle following the incident.  Further investigation revealed Miller had previously been convicted of a crime of domestic violence and is prohibited from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.

If convicted, Miller faces up to 15 years in federal prison.