John Giumarra III, a member of a prominent local grape-growing family, who hit and killed a woman last year is now eligible to participate in a work-release program according to Kern County Sheriff's Office officials.
KCSO said that at this time it is not clear when or where Giumarra will complete his work-release program due to safety, security and privacy reasons, but he has been given an assignment.
In April, Giumarra was sentenced to 90 days, allowed to be served through the Kern County Sheriff's work-release program.
Officials with KCSO originally denied his application for the work-release program. There is no information as to why he was originally not eligible or what changed recently.
Giumarra was arrested after investigators said he hit and killed a bicyclist while driving under the influence on Golden State Avenue and F Street on January 16, 2017.
The 32-year-old bicyclist, Angela Holder, died from the injuries she sustained in the crash.
The District Attorney's Office said even though Giumarra was under the influence, Holder was at fault in the crash, because she was under the influence as well, was wearing dark clothing and wasn't in a crosswalk.
The District Attorney's Office said that Giumarra had been convicted of a DUI at least once before and said that Judge Judith Dulcich reduced charges against the prosecutor's wishes.
Felony DUI charges were recommended against Giumarra by Bakersfield Police last year.
Last month, along with his 90-day sentence, Giumarra was given five years probation and was ordered to pay $2,018 in fines and fees.
He also was sentenced to 100 hours of community service, which needs to be completed by Oct. 1. along with his work-release program.
As of now Giumarra cannot operate a vehicle and cannot visit places where alcohol is served.
