SAN BERNARDINO – (INT) – A series of investigations into a deadly tour bus crash near Mentone nearly 3-years ago has culminated in criminal charges against the driver.

Norberto Perez, 55, was arrested Wednesday on a warrant accusing him of eight felony counts of vehicular manslaughter.

Perez pleaded not guilty Thursday and his bail was set at $1 million. His next court hearing was set for December 1st.

Shortly after the February 2013 crash, Perez was reported to have said the brakes failed before the bus crashed into two other vehicles and overturned on Highway 38.

A federal investigation confirmed the brake failure. The National Transportation Safety Board concluded that all six brakes on the bus were defective and took the Federal Carrier Safety Administration to task for failing to regulate tour buses. The tour bus company had been advised there were maintenance issues before the crash. But, there were no follow-up inspections.

District Attorney Mike Ramos said "We intend to seek justice on behalf of the victims and their families."

Perez could get a 15-year prison sentence if convicted.

Story Date: November 23, 2015