Chavez Sentenced To Six Years In State Prison

Sonora, CA — Ricky Joseph Chavez, Jr. was sentenced to six years in state prison today as a result of the death of 22 year old Holly Corinne Hanson of Oakdale May 15, 2008.

Chavez received the sentence under the guidelines of California Penal Code 191.5, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.

Early that morning Chavez attempted to elude a CHP officer while traveling at a high rate of speed while eastbound on Hwy 108. Chavez turned north on Washington St. traveling through Sonora. He then proceeded back to Hwy 108 via Stockton Rd. It was at that intersection that he failed to negotiate a right hand turn. His vehicle crossed over the highway and crashed. Both occupants were ejected. Hanson was killed while Chavez attempted to escape on foot. He was captured by the CHP.

Prosecuting Attorney Donald Segerstrom commented that three options were available to the court. Chavez could have been sentenced to four years, six years or 10 years. With the six year sentence he now has one “strike” on his record.

While the family passionately pleaded for the maximum sentence the court determined on a plea bargain that Chavez did not purposely kill the victim. They had had a relationship for approximately two year´s time. In addition he quickly pleaded guilty to the crime. At that point the District Attorney´s Office felt the mid-level sentence was appropriate.

Written by Bill Johnson