Jonathan Pena: Outraged family of Oregon mom killed in crash calls driver's 3-year sentence a 'time-out'
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
PORTLAND, OREGON: A grieving woman from Oregon was left furious following the sentencing of Jonathan Pena, who received a mere three-year prison term for his involvement in a fatal street racing crash that resulted in the death of her daughter, Ashlee McGill.
In August 2022, Peña was racing another driver at speeds exceeding 80 mph when their vehicles collided at a Portland intersection.
Inisghts into Jonathan Pena's crash
The impact of the crash resulted in the death of 26-year-old McGill, who was waiting at a bus stop at the time. Peña's Mustang, traveling at 84 mph, 54 mph above the posted speed limit, moments before the collision, veered off the road, causing significant damage to nearby property and resulting in McGill's untimely death.
Initially charged with second-degree manslaughter, Peña later pleaded guilty to criminally negligent homicide, recklessly endangering another person, and reckless driving.
Despite the severity of the charges, McGill's mother, Misty Nicholson, expressed her disappointment with the leniency of Peña's sentence, stating, "It was definitely too light. I think that if they are trying to get people to stop speed racing, that's not going to do it." "I think he got maybe a time-out. But that really wasn't a sentence," KATU News.
Who was Ashlee McGill?
McGill, a native of Portland was described as a loving mother to her eight-year-old son Ryker. Her survivors also include her mother, three sisters, grandmother, aunt, and uncles.
Peña's sentencing of 36 months behind bars, with three years of post-release supervision and five years of probation, fell short of providing closure to McGill's grieving family. Nicholson, addressing the suspect during the sentencing said, "I do hope for the rest of your life, every time you close my eyes you see my daughter and remember what you did to her."
Oregon Senate Bill 615 enhances penalties for street racing offenders
Peña's sentencing occurred amidst legislative efforts to combat street racing, with Oregon Senate Bill 615 increasing penalties for offenders involved in such activities. Initial offenders could receive a punishment of up to 364 days in incarceration, a $6,250 fine, or both. On the other hand, individuals who commit subsequent offenses within a five-year timeframe may face a maximum of five years of imprisonment, a $125,000 fine, or both.
Peña expressed his sentiments, pleading McGill's family to eventually grant him forgiveness. "I feel like I owe it to you, to your family to endure every trial and tribulation that comes with this to ensure that you as a family feel that justice for Ashlee is served," he remarked.
