The news of former Las Vegas Raiders player Henry Ruggs pleading guilty to drunk driving resulting in death has shocked the sports world. Back in November 2021, Ruggs was driving at a speed of 156 mph while under the influence of alcohol when he crashed into another car, killing 23-year-old Tina Tintor and her dog. And on Thursday, Ruggs accepted a plea deal in a Las Vegas courtroom and pleaded guilty to felony DUI resulting in death and a misdemeanor count of vehicular manslaughter. Under the deal, he faces a minimum of three years in prison and a maximum of ten years.
Despite criticism over the plea deal, Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson stated that it accomplished the most important goals of convicting Ruggs of the strictest charge allowed by Nevada law for drunk driving, sending him to prison, and eliminating his ability to appeal his conviction and sentence. The tragic accident has brought attention to the consequences of drunk driving and the steps that need to be taken to prevent such events from happening again. Ruggs’ blood alcohol level was double the legal limit, highlighting his irresponsible alcohol consumption.
Ex-@Raiders player Henry Ruggs pleaded guilty Wednesday to driving his car drunk at speeds up to 156 mph on a city street before causing a fiery crash that killed a Las Vegas woman and her dog.
STORY: https://t.co/jHc776CmG8 pic.twitter.com/GwbU5jLlKo— FOX5 Las Vegas (@FOX5Vegas) May 11, 2023
Ahead of Ruggs’ guilty plea, people scrutinized Nevada’s DUI sentences and called for stricter punishments for those convicted of drunk driving. The plea deal has brought some closure to Tintor’s family and friends.
While nothing can undo the tragedy that occurred, Ruggs’ guilty plea has brought a sense of justice for Tintor’s loved ones. In a statement released after the court proceeding, Ruggs’ attorneys expressed their hope that his guilty plea will help in the process of healing the wounds caused by the accident.
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Ruggs’ promising career came to an abrupt end due to his actions that fateful night. The former first-round draft pick played only a year and a half in the NFL before being released by the Raiders.
The tragedy has left many wondering what could have been for the talented athlete had he not made such a terrible decision. The details of the crash have shed light on the dangers of drunk driving and its consequences.