Early Release for California Woman Who Caused Fatal Bicycle Accident Angers Victim’s Family
A woman in California, who was involved in a fatal crash with a bicyclist during her fourth instance of distracted driving, is set to be released early from prison, leaving the victim’s family understandably upset.
Neomi Berrado, aged 28, killed 21-year-old Benjamin Montalvo while he was biking with friends in Corona, Riverside County, back in 2020. At the time of the accident, Berrado was reportedly under the influence of drugs and texting.
Initially sentenced to nine years for vehicular manslaughter, she is now scheduled for early release due to perceived good behavior, just under three years into her sentence.
Benjamin’s mother, Kelly Montalvo, expressed her frustration, noting that Berrado’s impending release—almost coinciding with Valentine’s Day—feels particularly painful. “This is definitely upsetting and angering,” she said. “I can’t believe she could be rehabilitated in just two and a half years.” Montalvo described her late son as a “light” who brightened the lives of many, enjoying sports like football, soccer, and, of course, cycling.
The Montalvo family’s dynamic has been irreparably altered since Benjamin’s tragic death. Reports indicate that Berrado was not only texting but also fled the scene and attempted to cover up the incident by replacing her broken windshield.
Berrado’s record reflects a troubling pattern; she had already been implicated in four other accidents due to distraction. In fact, the crash that claimed Benjamin’s life was identified as her fifth at-fault incident.
Recently, Kelly received a letter from the California Department of Corrections announcing Berrado’s approval for parole, which heightened her distress.
According to Emily Humpal, a representative from the Department of Corrections, Berrado earned 124 days of credit for time served prior to her official sentencing, thus qualifying her for an earlier release date, currently set for February 2026.
While Humpal did not clarify whether Berrado would regain her driving privileges post-release, Montalvo has actively sought intervention from Governor Gavin Newsom to delay this decision, although her efforts have not yielded results.
John Hall, a spokesperson for the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, echoed the family’s concerns, stating that prosecutors also disapprove of Berrado’s early release. “Public safety is our main focus,” he remarked. “This individual has shown dangerous behavior, and we firmly oppose her release.”
Montalvo continues to advocate against Berrado’s early exit but admits her optimism is waning. “If she is released, my hope is that she doesn’t harm anyone else,” she shared, reflecting a mother’s anguish and a community’s concern.
