STROUDSBURG – A year and a half after a car crash that killed State Senator James Rhoades, trial is to begin for the driver accused of DWI.  Opening statements are this morning, in Monroe County Court.

Thomas Senavitis, 46, of Kunkletown, allegedly crossed the center line of Route 209, in western Monroe County.  His pickup slammed into Rhoades oncoming car. 

Rhoades died a few days later.  His wife, Delores, was injured. 

Authorities say Senavitis’ blood alcohol was 0.355, or more than four times the legal limit.

Defense attorneys reportedly plan to challenge some of the prosecution allegations, including the blood alcohol reading, and whether in fact it was Senavitis’ vehicle that crossed the center line.

Rhoades represented the 29th district, which included parts of Monroe and five other counties.  He had been in the Senate since 1980, and on the night of the crash, was making some campaign appearances in the area.