A drunk driver responsible for killing a bride on her wedding night has made a contentious request after receiving her sentence.
Aric Hutchinson and his bride, Samantha Miller, were departing their wedding reception in Folly Beach, South Carolina, in a golf cart when Jamie Lee Komoroski, who was highly intoxicated, collided with them at 65mph in April 2023.
Tragically, Miller lost her life in the incident, and Hutchinson suffered severe injuries, including a brain injury.
Earlier this month, Komoroski pled guilty to two counts of felony DUI resulting in great bodily harm, as well as one count each of felony DUI resulting in death and reckless homicide resulting in death.
On the same day, she was sentenced to 25 years for the DUI causing Samantha’s death, 15 years for the DUI causing injuries to Hutchinson, and 10 years for reckless homicide.
Komoroski will serve her sentences concurrently.
Komoroski’s attorneys are appealing to Ninth Judicial Circuit Judge Deadra L. Jefferson to reconsider the sentence, arguing it is ‘unwarranted and grossly disproportionate’.
Her legal team points out that this is in reference to similar offenses committed in the Lowcountry area of South Carolina.
Law & Crime reports that sentences for felony DUI resulting in death in the same jurisdiction typically range from nine to 18 years in prison.
Komoroski’s lawyers admit ‘the gravity of the offense was severe’, but believe that mitigating factors, such as her guilty plea, were not adequately considered in her sentencing.
When sentenced, Komoroski was visibly emotional and addressed the court with a statement.
She expressed: “On the night of April 22, 2023, I chose to drink and drive, which resulted in the death of Samantha Miller.
“This is the worst decision I have ever made in my life.
“Due to my poor decisions, a beautiful wife, sister, and daughter was taken. All I can say is how incredibly remorseful I am.”
She further stated: “I want them to know how sorry I am from the bottom of my heart and that I take full responsibility for my actions.
“I will always be devastated, deeply ashamed, and terribly sorry for what I have done.”
Hutchinson was present as well and delivered a heartfelt speech, sharing the painful memories of his wife’s final words to him.