Myisha Lee Armitage responsible for the 2016 Nanakuli hit-and-run crash that took the life of 19-year-old Kaulana Werner will not face any further prison sentences.
Under a plea agreement, Myisha-Lee Armitage pleaded guilty Monday to negligent homicide and leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in death or serious bodily injury.
Ed Werner, Kaulana Werner’s father, said: ‘All we wanted was for her to take full responsibility.
As part of the plea agreement, Armitage received an 18-month sentence, which includes credit for time served. In addition, she is currently serving five years of probation and is prohibited from driving or drinking during this time.
“Now we can move forward. Today, my family forgave her,” Werner said.
The family of fatal crash victim Kaulana Werner has returned to court to demand justice and perform a selfless act of forgiveness.
“Myisha, we forgive you,” the family said as they hugged the woman who took their son’s life. pic.twitter.com/uzHvIrwOzE
– KHON2 news (@KHONnews) May 23, 2023
After Kaulana’s tragic death, the Werner family actively worked to improve road safety in Hawaii. They participated in waving signs and organizing events to raise awareness about the consequences of drunk driving.
Their efforts led to the passage of the Kaulana Law, which increases the maximum sentence for drivers who cause accidents and then run away. The family explained that they only learned about Armitage’s willingness to offer a plea agreement and accept full responsibility last month.
The Werner family informed HNN that they will continue their efforts to encourage people not to drink and drive.
What is Kaulana Werner’s death?
A family in Nanakuli, who tragically lost their teenage son in a hit-and-run crash seven years ago, spent much of that time advocating tougher laws against drunk driving. On Monday, May 22, the Werner family returned to court to seek justice and demonstrate an act of selflessness.
Under the plea agreement, Myisha Armitage, 29, pleaded guilty to negligent homicide and causing an accident resulting in death or injury. In return, she received an 18-month sentence, which is the amount of time she had served and five years of probation. Armitage expressed regret and apologized to the victim’s family in court.
“I sincerely and deeply apologize for taking Kaulana from you. I apologize for not reaching out to you personally to express my regret,” she said.
Kaulana’s parents told the judge their only wish was for Armitage to acknowledge her responsibility.
“Myisha, we forgive you,” they said, embracing her.
In April 2016, Armitage was driving while intoxicated when she fatally stabbed 19-year-old Kaulana Werner.
Since then, the Werner family has successfully contributed to the passage of the Kaulana Law, which increases the maximum sentence for drivers who cause accidents. In 2019, Armitage was initially found guilty of negligent homicide, but the conviction was dropped on appeal.
For now, the family’s top priority is moving forward, as they believe that’s what Kaulana wants.
“Throwing her in jail won’t bring Kaulana back. I simply hope that she can raise awareness out there,” said Ed Werner, Kaulana’s father.
“I tried to find the right words, but Kaulana saved me. I can’t fully express what I mean and I don’t mean to hurt you more with my words, but he saved me,” Armitage said.
The judge emphasized to Armitage that the plea agreement offered her a second chance, urging her to honor the memory of Kaulana by making the most of it.
“His short life has brought about significant and positive change in this world. That torch has now been passed on to you. Take it with the pride and courage I know you possess,” Judge Paul Wong said.
“Our son will do the same. He forgave her a long time ago and we are no different from him,” Ed added.
As part of the plea agreement, Armitage was banned from driving for a period of five years on probation.
Categories: News
Source: vothisaucamau.edu.vn
