Man pleads guilty to wife's killing

INDIANAPOLIS (WIBC) -- David Brinker will spend a mere few additional months in prison after accepting a plea deal for the reckless homicide of his wife, Dorothy Brinker. On March 6, 2023, the shooting occurred outside their east side home, leading to his guilty plea and subsequent sentencing by a Marion County judge. Brinker received a five-year sentence, with two years suspended and two years of probation, meaning he will serve approximately 101 more days in prison, considering time served and good behavior.

During police interviews, Brinker claimed the gun discharged accidentally as he attempted to prevent his wife from driving away. Prosecutors chose to pursue a lesser charge, concerned about their ability to prove intent in a potential jury trial.

The night prior to the incident, Dorothy expressed to friends her anxiety about returning home, as Brinker had been calling her angrily while watching their infant daughter. Following an argument, as she attempted to leave, Brinker confronted her in the street, seizing her truck and reaching for the keys, ultimately resulting in the tragic discharge of the weapon.

Since Dorothy's death, their two-year-old daughter has been under the care of relatives. However, Child Protective Services has determined that the child should be reunited with Brinker once he completes his sentence this summer.

The case raises numerous concerns about domestic violence and child safety, prompting discussions on the judicial system's handling of such incidents.