Jennifer K. Penman

The accused pleaded guilty to three counts of criminal negligence causing death and two counts of impaired driving causing bodily harm arising from a high-speed collision while intoxicated that killed three people and severely injured two others.

The court emphasized denunciation and general deterrence in impaired driving cases causing death, reviewing appellate authorities including R. v. Kummer and related jurisprudence.

Numerous aggravating factors were identified, including extreme speed, high blood alcohol level, multiple fatalities, severe injuries, and refusal to provide a breath sample.

Mitigating factors included youth, a guilty plea, expressions of remorse, and community support.

Applying the governing authorities, the court imposed a penitentiary sentence at the upper end of the sentencing range.