Vicksburg, MS – John Burton, a Vicksburg man, was sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to two counts of Aggravated DUI, with 10 years to be served concurrently for each count. The sentence was handed down by Judge Toni Terrett.
The incident occurred in March 2022 when Burton, driving under the influence of multiple substances, veered into the northbound lane on Highway 27, colliding head-on with a Toyota Tacoma. His passenger, 30-year-old Kiley Goulette, tragically lost her life at the scene. The driver of the Tacoma sustained injuries.
Further investigation revealed that Burton was under the influence of methamphetamine at the time of the crash. His attorney, John Bullard, represented him during the sentencing hearing.
In Mississippi, Aggravated DUI, or DUI Mayhem, is a serious charge when the offender causes severe injury, including death or disfigurement. Penalties for such a conviction range from 5 to 25 years in prison. In addition, upon release, offenders are required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) for at least five years.
Burton is also serving an 8-year sentence for a separate Identity Theft conviction. Assistant District Attorney Branan Southerland represented the state during the proceedings.