SANDPOINT — A California woman accused in the death of a Clark Fork man in early May has pleaded guilty to charges related to the matter, along with an additional charge that occurred while she was in custody.  

Crystal Russell, 45, entered a guilty plea to amended charges of vehicular manslaughter and possession of drug paraphernalia, both misdemeanors, and evidence destruction, a felony.  

As part of a plea agreement, charges of possession of a controlled substance and possession of contraband in a correctional facility have been dismissed. The original felony charge of vehicular manslaughter was also reduced to a misdemeanor as part of the agreement.  

According to an amended information, the felony was reduced to a misdemeanor by noting that the victim in the case was killed after Russell failed to maintain her lane with gross negligence, resulting in her vehicle colliding with a mountainside. The original charging document suggested that Russell was under the influence of methamphetamine. 

Prosecuting counsel in the case is expected to suggest Russell be sentenced to four years in prison for the crimes, two years fixed and two indeterminate.  

She will be sentenced Nov. 23 at the Bonner County Courthouse.  

At the time of her change of plea hearing, her bail was also reduced to $10,000. This was Russell's third attempt at requesting a lower bail. District Judge Susie Jensen said the reduction did not minimize the life that was lost because of Russell's actions.  

Idaho State Police troopers said a Hyundai Equus, driven by Russell, was eastbound on U.S. Highway 200 near Clark Fork when the vehicle veered off the roadway and struck a rock face.   

ISP troopers reported that Russell was wearing a seat belt, while the 65-year-old male passenger was not. He succumbed to his injuries on scene before officials could arrive.   

Marijuana, drug paraphernalia and an open alcohol container were found inside the vehicle. When responding to the scene, an ISP trooper reported that Russell appeared to be under the influence of either alcohol, drugs or both. 

Russell was arrested at Bonner General Health following treatment from the May 2 crash, according to a probable cause affidavit.