Bizuayehu Tesfaye-Pool/Getty Image
Former Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Henry Ruggs was sentenced to a prison term of three to ten years for his role in a fiery crash that led to the death of a young woman and her dog.
The sentencing was delivered by Judge Sarah Thompson on Wednesday morning, according to 8NewsNow’s David Charns.
The fatal crash occurred on the fateful morning of November 2, 2021, when Ruggs was driving at a staggering speed of 156 mph while under the influence of alcohol.
His vehicle collided with the car driven by 23-year-old Tina Tintor, leading to a devastating fire that claimed both Tintor’s life and that of her faithful canine companion.
The impact of the crash left the local community and NFL fans in shock, and the incident also marked the abrupt end of Ruggs’ promising career with the Las Vegas Raiders.
Ruggs, 24, stood before the court, expressing remorse for his actions and acknowledging the gravity of his guilt.
In a statement addressed to the parents and family of Tina Tintor, he stated, “I sincerely apologize for my actions the morning of Nov. 2, 2021. My guilty plea will allow me to begin the healing process.” This heartfelt apology was met with a mix of tears and grief from Tina Tintor’s family members, who were present in the courtroom.
Prosecutors had presented evidence that Ruggs had been driving with a blood alcohol level of 0.1 at the time of the crash, which is twice the legal limit.
That fact, combined with the excessive speed at which he was traveling, painted a grim picture of the recklessness that led to the tragic loss of life.
The legal proceedings had been closely followed by the public, as the case not only involved a high-profile athlete but also raised important questions about the responsibilities that come with fame and the consequences of driving under the influence.
As Ruggs begins his prison sentence, the hope is that his case will contribute to a broader dialogue about the importance of raising awareness about the devastating impact of driving under the influence.