Justice or Injustice? Family's Anguish Over Short Sentence for Drunk Driver in Deadly Crash

A family in Long Beach is grappling with grief and frustration after learning that the admitted drunk driver responsible for a tragic crash is likely to receive a surprisingly lenient sentence. The case has sparked outrage, raising questions about the effectiveness of the justice system when it comes to drunk driving incidents.

The Incident That Changed Lives

On a rainy night, February 20, 2023, 31-year-old Julie Haq drove her vehicle at nearly 90 mph before slamming into the car of Rodger Watkins, a 60-year-old father and custodian at Cal State Long Beach. The collision resulted in Watkins' death, leaving behind a family shattered by loss.

Haq's Plea and Its Consequences

• Haq pleaded no contest to one count of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.
• In her apology to Watkins' family, Haq admitted to drinking two bottles of wine before getting behind the wheel.
• Prosecutors are expected to recommend a sentence at the lower end of the 4 to 10 years range during Haq's upcoming hearing on December 13.

Watkins' daughter, Mariela Salgado, expressed her family's deep disappointment with the justice system, noting that Haq "has yet to serve a night in jail" for what they perceive as reckless behavior that cost them a beloved family member.

Community Response and Comparisons

Watkins was a devoted father and husband, who had five children with his wife, Maria. His passing has left a void in the community, as approximately 150 people gathered to commemorate what would have been his 61st birthday shortly after the tragedy.

Salgado highlighted discrepancies in sentencing that have left her family feeling slighted. For example, she pointed to the case of Carlo Navarro, a 20-year-old charged with murder after killing a couple and their 3-year-old son in a drunk driving incident on Halloween night in 2019. Despite Haq's actions, the lack of a prior criminal record seems to weigh heavily in her favor, according to the prosecution.

The Aftermath and Haq's Reflections

In a bid for redemption, Haq claims to have attended 369 Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, completed a DUI course, and logged over 130 hours of community service since the crash. However, Salgado feels that Haq's remorse is insufficient compared to the pain her family endures daily.

Looking Ahead

Salgado and her family plan to attend the upcoming sentencing hearing, hoping to convey their feelings to the court. They are determined to ensure that their loved one is not forgotten and that justice is served in a way that reflects the severity of the crime.

What Do You Think?

• Should drunk drivers face harsher penalties regardless of their prior records?
• Is the current justice system failing victims of drunk driving?
• Do you believe Haq's remorse is genuine, or is it too little too late?
• How can communities better support families affected by drunk driving incidents?
• What changes would you like to see in legislation regarding drunk driving penalties?