Driver Gets 25 Years Behind Bars for Killing Teen Boys
Sentencing Hearing
A convicted drunk driver was sentenced to decades in prison for hitting and killing two middle school tennis stars on Long Island last spring.
Vigilante Sentencing Hearing
Those who knew and loved Ethan Falkowitz and Drew Hassenbein packed the courtroom Friday and two overflow rooms for the sentencing of Amandeep Singh, who was ultimately sentenced to 25 years in prison for causing the May 3 wrong-way crash.
Families’ Reaction
“What this man committed is just beyond thinkable, and he gets 25 years?” said Mitch Hassenbein, Drew’s father.
“[Ethan’s] future was limitless. And now we’re left with no recourse, no justice. Just a lifetime of pain, heartache and utter disbelief,” said Gary Falkowitz, Ethan’s father.
Condemnation of the Driver
Falkowitz’s dad was one of nine family members who over the course of roughly two hours in a packed courtroom, condemned Singh as a murderer and talked about the bright selfless teens Singh had killed.
Grandfather’s Outburst
“Why didn’t you go home, you turkey? You should have just gone home to your two kids,” shouted Jack Hassenbein, Drew’s grandfather.
Driver’s Apology
After the crash, police body cameras captured Singh lying about his involvement; he had run from the crash scene and was found hiding behind a dumpster.
In court for his sentencing, Singh apologized, “The disregard I showed for others makes me sick. If anyone should have died, it should have been me.”
Prosecutor’s Statement
Nassau County’s district attorney, who said Singh offered “hollow words,” again called for tougher drunk driving penalties, a cry echoed by one of the crash survivors.
Crash Survivor’s Plea
Zachary Sheena said the crash left him with physical and emotional scars, but he vowed to lobby for tougher penalties.
“I don’t know why I survived, but it will not be in vain,” Sheena said in court.
Conclusion
The tragic story of Amandeep Singh and his sentencing serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of drunk driving. It is our hope that this tragedy will serve as a catalyst for change, inspiring individuals to prioritize their safety and the safety of others on our roads.
FAQs
Q: How long was the driver sentenced to prison?
A: Amandeep Singh was sentenced to 25 years in prison.
Q: What was the cause of the crash?
A: The crash was caused by Amandeep Singh driving drunk and high, and crashing his pickup truck at 90 miles an hour into a car carrying the two high school tennis players and two of their teammates.
Q: What is the current sentence for drunk driving in New York?
A: The sentence for drunk driving varies depending on the circumstances of the case. In this case, Amandeep Singh received a 25-year sentence.
