Five-Year Prison Sentence for Aggravated DUI for Yocum; No Finding in Blumer Death

Effingham resident Gregory Yocum was sentenced Thursday to five years in prison for Aggravated DUI. The charge stems from an incident the day after Christmas 2014 that resulted in the death of 41-year-old Wesley Edward Blumer of Effingham.

The incident occurred about 9:30pm. State police say Blumer, who was wearing dark-colored clothing, was walking northbound in the northbound lane of US 45 on the north edge of Heartville when he was struck by a pickup truck driven by the 57-year-old Yocum. Blumer was taken to HSHS St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital in Effingham where he was pronounced dead.

Yocum was involved in another crash in September 2015 and was again charged with DUI alcohol. His license had not been rescinded after the first crash since his blood alcohol content was below the legal limit by the time he was tested after the crash. He was ordered not to drive after the second crash occurred.

During a hearing in July of this year, parties for both sides agreed that an extended term would not be sought during sentencing, and agreed that there would be no finding concerning the fatality. Also, the charge stemming from the September 2015 crash was dismissed as part of the plea.

In addition to the five-year prison term, Yocum will serve two years' mandatory supervised released once out of prison, must pay fines and court costs and must make restitution to the victims.

Blumer's parents, Ed and Lori, each read victim impact statements to the Court.