SENTENCE: Judicial incompetence

| January 16, 2019 12:00 AM

Regarding the recent decision by District Court Judge Scott Wayman with defendant William Swan, I am completely astounded by the sentence. Probation for felony DUI/manslaughter?

The defendant had drug paraphernalia, suspended license and a warrant from Washington state. He also refused to provide a breath sample after killing a 16-year-old and seriously injuring his 20-year-old brother. What a complete travesty of justice. Better yet, no justice whatsoever. What type of deterrent is this decision? This sends the wrong message to the citizens of Kootenai County.

I think the court would rule differently if the instrument of death was something other than a vehicle. I am certain the victim’s family finds no solace in knowing their loved one was killed by a vehicle vs. any other form of weapon(s). Blame can also spread to the prosecuting attorney’s office for not having the courage to take the case to trial. (#PleaBarginMill) Equal blame for the person(s) who dropped the ball for failing to complete the pre-sentencing report. A perfect trifecta of incompetence in our judicial system.

DENNIS HUBBS

Coeur d’Alene