Las Vegas Raiders’ former player Henry Ruggs has been sentenced to at least three years in a Nevada prison for causing a fatal drunk driving crash. The incident occurred nearly two years ago when Ruggs was driving his sports car at speeds of up to 156 mph on a city street. Ruggs pleaded guilty to felony DUI causing death and misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter in May and appeared in court for sentencing.
Expressing remorse, Ruggs apologized, acknowledging the pain his actions caused to both his own family and the family of the victim, Tina Tintor. Ruggs also stated his intention to use his experience to educate others about the dangers of driving at unsafe speeds and while under the influence of alcohol. Tintor’s mother, Mirjana Komazec, read a statement in court, offering her grief and memories of her daughter and expressing hope that Ruggs has the opportunity to see his own daughter grow up.
Ruggs’ passenger at the time of the crash, Kiara Je’nai Kilgo-Washington, Ruggs’ fiancée and the mother of their child, was injured in the accident. Ruggs’ attorneys presented letters from high school administrators and teachers who praised his character, emphasizing that he made a terrible mistake and deeply regrets his actions.
Ruggs’ plea deal helped him avoid a trial, as it was challenging to convict him without a field sobriety test being administered after the crash. Ruggs’ defense team also argued that the blood-alcohol test was improperly obtained. The blood test revealed that Ruggs had a blood-alcohol level of 0.16%, twice the legal limit in Nevada.
The sentencing comes as a reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the devastating consequences that can result from driving under the influence and at excessive speeds. The victim’s family expressed their hope that Ruggs’ case inspires positive change and encourages people to look out for one another on the road.
As Ruggs was led away in handcuffs, his fiancée and a group of supporters looked on. He had been under house arrest since shortly after the crash. The sentence serves as a reminder that actions have consequences, especially when they result in the loss of innocent lives.
