Bill to Toughen Hit and Run Penalties Signed Into Law
05/12/2011
Douglas County District Attorney Charles Branson announces today House Bill 2044 introduced by Representative Paul Davis and the House Committee on Corrections and Juvenile Justice on January 19, which toughens hit and run penalties, was signed into law by the Governor. Senator Tom Holland, State Representative Paul Davis and Branson held a joint press conference on January 14 to announcing their intent to introduce this legislation. The families of Douglas county victims Thomas Crum and Rachel Leek also expressed their support for the tougher penalties at the conference. Previously, under Kansas statute if a defendant was convicted of leaving the scene of an accident involving the death of a person, it was a level nine felony. Depending on a defendant's criminal history he or she could face probation. This new law makes it a level six felony and it can potentially be charged as a level five felony "if the person knew or reasonably should have know that such accident resulted in injury or death." A level six felony is punishable by 17 to 46 months in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) and a level five felony is punishable by 31 to 136 months KDOC. Actual sentences depend on a defendant's prior criminal history. See here for a complete list of the Kansas sentencing guidelines. http://www.douglas-county.com/depts/da/docs/pdf/da_sentencingguidelines.pdf Branson stated, "While I hope my office never has to prosecute another hit and run fatality case, I feel some relief knowing I have a statute with tougher penalties to use against these extremely dangerous drivers. Today, my thoughts and prayers are with all families who have lost a loved one in such a tragic event, including the families of Mr. Crum, Mr. Leek and Mr. Ryan Kanost." -30- CONTACT INFO: Charles Branson Douglas County District Attorney 785-841-0211 cbranson@douglas-county.com
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Media Contact:
Cheryl L. Wright
District Attorney's Office
Assistant to the District Attorney
cwright@douglas-county.com