Petition for Comprehensive Drug Testing in Fatal Motor Vehicle Accidents

Recent signers:
Brandon Rodriguez and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

In loving memory of Ava Conklin, whose life was tragically cut short in a motor vehicle accident, on June 24, 2023, we, her family and friends, stand united in our pursuit of justice and accountability. Recent revelations have brought to light a concerning gap in the investigative process surrounding Ava's accident. While a drug test was conducted following the incident, it is our understanding that certain commonly abused substances, including opioids, were not included in the testing protocol.

The Dreger 5000 drug test that was administered screens for substances such as Amphetamines, Benzodiazepines, Methamphetamines, Cocaine, Cannabis, Opiates, Ketamine and Methadone. However, crucially, it does not test for opioids, including but not limited to OxyContin and Vicodin.

The absence of comprehensive drug testing in fatal motor vehicle accidents raises legitimate concerns about our ability to fully understand the circumstances leading to such tragedies. We are advocating for transparency, accountability, and improved protocols to ensure that families like ours receive the closure and answers they deserve.

Our petition calls for the following:

1. **Comprehensive Drug Testing:** We urge authorities to implement standardized protocols for drug testing in all motor vehicle accidents resulting in fatalities. This should include screening for a wide range of substances known to impair driving abilities, including opioids, benzodiazepines, and other commonly abused drugs.

2. **Transparency and Accountability:** There must be transparency throughout the investigative process, with clear communication regarding the results of drug tests and their implications. Families deserve to be informed and involved in understanding the circumstances surrounding their loved one's tragic demise.

3. **Collaborative Action:** We pledge to work alongside other families who have been similarly affected by inadequate drug testing protocols. Together, we will amplify our voices and advocate for meaningful change to prevent future tragedies.

4. **Legal Accountability:** It is not our intention to make unfounded accusations or defame any individuals involved in Ava's case. Rather, we seek to address systemic issues and advocate for improvements in the investigative process to ensure justice for all parties involved.

By signing this petition, you stand in solidarity with Ava Conklin’s family and all those who seek transparency and accountability in fatal motor vehicle accidents.

Thank you for your support.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Remembering Ava:

Ava's infectious smile and unwavering happiness were a testament to her remarkable spirit. Throughout her 19 years of life, she never lost that radiance, remaining a source of positivity and warmth to all who knew her. Though she enjoyed the simple pleasures of girlish pursuits, Ava cherished her time with family above all else, never considering herself "too cool" to be in our presence.

Ava possessed a deep appreciation for the world around her. She had an adventurous spirit and an open mind, eagerly embracing new experiences and embracing the beauty of nature. Her love for animals and her respect for the earth exemplified her compassionate nature and demonstrated the kindness she carried within her.

Ava was a true talent, gifted with an array of abilities that she nurtured throughout her life. From her early days at Rosie's Theatre Kids to her time at the Talent Unlimited High School, her heart was set on Broadway. With a passion for dancing, performing, and an angelic voice that could move hearts, she was a star in our eyes, embodying the essence of her family's Broadway legacy.

The impact Ava had on others extended far beyond her family. Her friends, the Hell's Kitchen community she called home, and the schools she attended, including her recent journey at Northern Vermont University, all mourn her loss. Her absence is a testament to the profound imprint she left on the lives she touched.

We will forever miss Ava's silliness, her infectious smile, and the warmth of her hugs. Her authentic and unpretentious way of life, not desiring materialistic things or conforming to societal expectations, serves as a powerful reminder for us to stay true to ourselves. Ava's love for thrifted clothes and her passion for music reflected her unique essence, one that celebrated individuality and embraced the world around her.

To know Ava was to love her. Her genuine nature, her unwavering kindness, and her compassionate spirit endeared her to everyone fortunate enough to cross her path. She was, without a doubt, too good for this earth.

Please stand with us in seeking justice for Ava Conklin.

 

 

10,368

Recent signers:
Brandon Rodriguez and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

In loving memory of Ava Conklin, whose life was tragically cut short in a motor vehicle accident, on June 24, 2023, we, her family and friends, stand united in our pursuit of justice and accountability. Recent revelations have brought to light a concerning gap in the investigative process surrounding Ava's accident. While a drug test was conducted following the incident, it is our understanding that certain commonly abused substances, including opioids, were not included in the testing protocol.

The Dreger 5000 drug test that was administered screens for substances such as Amphetamines, Benzodiazepines, Methamphetamines, Cocaine, Cannabis, Opiates, Ketamine and Methadone. However, crucially, it does not test for opioids, including but not limited to OxyContin and Vicodin.

The absence of comprehensive drug testing in fatal motor vehicle accidents raises legitimate concerns about our ability to fully understand the circumstances leading to such tragedies. We are advocating for transparency, accountability, and improved protocols to ensure that families like ours receive the closure and answers they deserve.

Our petition calls for the following:

1. **Comprehensive Drug Testing:** We urge authorities to implement standardized protocols for drug testing in all motor vehicle accidents resulting in fatalities. This should include screening for a wide range of substances known to impair driving abilities, including opioids, benzodiazepines, and other commonly abused drugs.

2. **Transparency and Accountability:** There must be transparency throughout the investigative process, with clear communication regarding the results of drug tests and their implications. Families deserve to be informed and involved in understanding the circumstances surrounding their loved one's tragic demise.

3. **Collaborative Action:** We pledge to work alongside other families who have been similarly affected by inadequate drug testing protocols. Together, we will amplify our voices and advocate for meaningful change to prevent future tragedies.

4. **Legal Accountability:** It is not our intention to make unfounded accusations or defame any individuals involved in Ava's case. Rather, we seek to address systemic issues and advocate for improvements in the investigative process to ensure justice for all parties involved.

By signing this petition, you stand in solidarity with Ava Conklin’s family and all those who seek transparency and accountability in fatal motor vehicle accidents.

Thank you for your support.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Remembering Ava:

Ava's infectious smile and unwavering happiness were a testament to her remarkable spirit. Throughout her 19 years of life, she never lost that radiance, remaining a source of positivity and warmth to all who knew her. Though she enjoyed the simple pleasures of girlish pursuits, Ava cherished her time with family above all else, never considering herself "too cool" to be in our presence.

Ava possessed a deep appreciation for the world around her. She had an adventurous spirit and an open mind, eagerly embracing new experiences and embracing the beauty of nature. Her love for animals and her respect for the earth exemplified her compassionate nature and demonstrated the kindness she carried within her.

Ava was a true talent, gifted with an array of abilities that she nurtured throughout her life. From her early days at Rosie's Theatre Kids to her time at the Talent Unlimited High School, her heart was set on Broadway. With a passion for dancing, performing, and an angelic voice that could move hearts, she was a star in our eyes, embodying the essence of her family's Broadway legacy.

The impact Ava had on others extended far beyond her family. Her friends, the Hell's Kitchen community she called home, and the schools she attended, including her recent journey at Northern Vermont University, all mourn her loss. Her absence is a testament to the profound imprint she left on the lives she touched.

We will forever miss Ava's silliness, her infectious smile, and the warmth of her hugs. Her authentic and unpretentious way of life, not desiring materialistic things or conforming to societal expectations, serves as a powerful reminder for us to stay true to ourselves. Ava's love for thrifted clothes and her passion for music reflected her unique essence, one that celebrated individuality and embraced the world around her.

To know Ava was to love her. Her genuine nature, her unwavering kindness, and her compassionate spirit endeared her to everyone fortunate enough to cross her path. She was, without a doubt, too good for this earth.

Please stand with us in seeking justice for Ava Conklin.

 

 

The Decision Makers

Melinda Katz
Queens County District Attorney
Grand Jury
Grand Jury

Supporter Voices

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