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July 20, 2006

Teen gets 3 years in youth program


By DENNIS HUSPENI THE GAZETTE

An illegal immigrant who killed a woman while driving after drinking alcohol was spared prison in a sentencing deal endorsed by the woman’s widower.

Rodrigo Rodriguez, 17, pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide caused by reckless driving in the Oct. 23 car crash that killed Patricia “Pat” Schnarr, 53.

He also was convicted of driving while ability impaired by alcohol, a misdemeanor.

Fourth Judicial District Judge David Shakes agreed to accept the sentence, three years in the Colorado Department of Corrections’ Youthful Offender System — a program similar to boot camp that rehabilitates young offenders.

A five-year prison sentence hangs over Rodriguez’s head if he fails to complete the program.

Rich Schnarr, Pat Schnarr’s husband, participated in mediation and agreed to the sentence.

Although he declined to make a comment at the sentencing hearing, he said afterward that he forgave Rodriguez.

“This kid needs an opportunity,” Schnarr said.

Pat Schnarr touched many young lives through her work with Girl Scouts Pikes Peak Wagon Wheel Council, her church and foreign exchange students.

“I’m very sorry,” Rodriguez said through a Spanish interpreter. “It was an accident. I didn’t think about the consequences.”

Deputy District Attorney Linda Billings said: “No amount of prison or probation or criminal consequences can make up for the loss of a loved one.”

But it was Rodriguez’s first offense, Billings noted, and he deserved a chance to contribute to society upon his release.

Billings said prosecutors have no say if U.S. immigration officials decide to deport Rodriguez before his sentence is complete.

“I have considered the fact that you’ve expressed a considerable amount of remorse,” Shakes said. “That could be a good start towards your rehabilitation.”

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dennis.huspeni@gazette.com