Woman found guilty of DUI manslaughter in the death of Hunter Cope

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The family of 12-year-old Hunter Cope was overcome with emotion when the verdict was announced Friday.

It took the jury nearly two hours to find Kelley Permenter guilty of DUI manslaughter in the death of Cope.

In March 2017, Cope was walking to school when he was hit and killed by Permenter at the busy intersection of Wonderwood Drive and State Road A1A.

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Prosecutors said the crash could’ve been prevented if Permenter hadn't gotten behind the wheel with cocaine and alcohol in her system.

Crystal Clark, Cope’s mother, said she has waited more than 2 1/2 years for the verdict.

MORE: Woman found guilty of DUI manslaughter in the death of Jacksonville 12-year-old Hunter Cope

“I’m very happy that Hunter finally got justice,” Clark said.

Clark said the guilty verdict will help her begin the healing journey, but nothing can replace her son.

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“I’ll never have closure,” Clark said. “He’ll always be there in my heart.”

Permenter was also found guilty of DUI with property and leaving the scene of a crash.

A judge revoked Permenter’s bail and she was taken away in handcuffs.

The sentencing was set for Nov. 25. at 1:30 p.m.

Cox Media Group