There’s been a major turn in a Colorado truck driver’s story.
As reported on news sources, Rogel Aguilera-Mederos was facing 110 years behind bars, and now his sentence is reduced to 10 years. He’ll be eligible for parole in 2026.
Public outcry played a significant role in Medero’s case, including backing from Kim Kardashian. In 2019, he was driving an 18-wheeler, and the truck’s brakes failed, causing the horrific pileup crash. He was given a mandatory 110-year sentence, but millions of people felt it was harsh and unfair since it wasn’t his fault/an accident. As a result of the horrific crash, four people died. TMZ reports Governor Jared Polis wrote in his clemency letter today (December 31),
“The crimes you were convicted of are serious. Four individuals lost their lives, and others were seriously injured because of your bad decisions.” He added,“Though your actions have caused immense pain, I am encouraged by your personal reflection and the commercial vehicle safety changes that were made in the wake of this tragedy to ensure this type of event never happens again.”
Kim Kardashian reacted via Twitter. Take a look:
“Thank you @GovofCO for taking action to reduce Mr. Aguilera- Mederos sentence! While his new sentence is ten years, he will now have an opportunity to come home in five years and be with his son and wife.” Plus,
“This case was a clear example of why mandatory minimums don’t work and need to be abolished. I’m grateful to Governor Polis for his empathy and leadership on this case.”
Thank you @GovofCO for taking action to reduce Mr. Aguilera- Mederos sentence! While his new sentence is ten years, he will now have an opportunity to come home in five years and be with his son and wife.
— Kim Kardashian (@KimKardashian) December 30, 2021
This case was a clear example of why mandatory minimums don’t work and need to be abolished. I’m grateful to Governor Polis for his empathy and leadership on this case.
— Kim Kardashian (@KimKardashian) December 30, 2021
Thank you @GovofCO 🙏🏼👏🏼 pic.twitter.com/v0HoGuafnP
— Kim Kardashian (@KimKardashian) December 30, 2021