Trial begins for Bluffton man accused of killing a motorcyclist in an alleged drunken-driving wreck

The trial of a Bluffton man accused of killing a motorcyclist in an alleged drunken-driving wreck in August 2007 is scheduled to begin this morning in Beaufort.

Rodney L. Galimore, 40, is charged with reckless homicide, felony DUI, a fourth offense of driving with a suspended license, two counts of child endangerment for having his young children in the vehicle, a liquor violation and not having insurance.

The wreck killed 42-year-old Merry C. Deon, who worked as a security guard at Long Cove Club.

If convicted, Galimore faces up to 65 years in prison and more than $56,200 in fines.

A jury panel was selected Monday afternoon. Potential jurors who read an article in Monday's Island Packet were excluded because the article contained information about Galimore's prior record that won't be admitted during the trial.