Davidson pleads not guilty, requests jury trial

Richard Davidson, the man allegedly responsible for a two-vehicle crash in Lincoln County that left Troy woman Laura Cooper dead, pleaded not guilty to negligent homicide or the alternative vehicular homicide while under the influence, in court on Monday.

The defense requested a jury trial.

Davidson was one of the drivers in a two-vehicle crash on Montana 56 west of Libby that left Cooper, 45, of Troy dead, and three injured, including Davidson and two juveniles travelling with Cooper.

Inside Davidson’s vehicle, a package consistent in appearance with drug paraphernalia was found. The substance inside the package later tested positive for meth.

Ambulance personnel stated that Davidson had allegedly admitted to them that he had used amphetamines that morning.

Confidential informants and street-level informants have told detectives in the past that they have bought dangerous drugs from Richard, specifically methamphetamine.

If convicted, Davidson will face up to 35 years in prison, and $100,000 in fines.

His omnibus is scheduled for May 8 at 1:30 p.m.