Truck driver’s 110-year sentence reduced after US outcry

AFP
2 Min Read
Kim Kardashian 2019 Creative Arts Emmy Awards - Arrivals
Kim Kardashian West attends the 2019 Creative Arts Emmy Awards on September 14, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)
 
Published by
AFP
 

Los Angeles (AFP) – A truck driver whose 110 year sentence over a deadly crash sparked outrage had his jail term reduced to ten years on Thursday.

More than 4.5 million people, including reality TV star Kim Kardashian, called for a reduction in Rogel Aguilera-Mederos‘ punishment, which the judge handing it down noted was the result of mandatory sentencing rules in the US state of Colorado.

Aguilera-Mederos, a Cuban immigrant, was transporting timber in April 2019 when his brakes failed on a downhill stretch, and he did not use an emergency exit ramp.

His out-of-control truck plowed into traffic, killing four people and injuring several others.

Aguilera-Mederos was found guilty by a jury on 27 counts including multiple vehicular homicides, and a judge handed down a 110-year sentence, which he said was the mandatory minimum under Colorado law.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis on Thursday acted to cut what he said was an “arbitrary and unjust” outcome.

“The length of your 110-year sentence is simply not commensurate with your actions, nor with penalties handed down to others for similar crimes,” he wrote in a letter to Aguilera-Mederos.

“There is an urgency to remedy this unjust sentence and restore confidence in the uniformity and fairness of our criminal justice system, and consequently I have chosen to commute your sentence now.”

Aguilera-Mederos will be eligible to apply for parole in five years.


HOT DEALS

crocs

Crocs Baya Clog

Make a comfy Crocs statement with the Crocs Baya Clog. A twist on the signature Classic Clog, it features the lightweight, durable build you love with advanced ventilation for breathability and to help drain water and debris. [Crocs]

$49.99$29.99BUY NOW
Old Navy Polo

Old Navy Classic Fit Pique Polo

The Old Navy Classic Fit Pique Polo features a spread collor with a buttoned placket and is a soft-washed pique knit made of 60% cotton and 40% polyester. [Old Navy]

$22.99$15.00BUY NOW

Like most websites, Socialite Life uses affiliate links where available, which means we earn a little commission if you click through and buy something. Also, as Amazon Influencers, we earn from qualifying purchases. Savings shown are those from the date and time of this article’s publication.

Share This Article