The driver and passenger of an out of control car that slammed into a group of pedestrians in Wollongong, killing a teenager, have made a last ditch effort to reduce their sentences. But it was too little too late for the pair, who’ll spend up to 6 years behind bars.
Despite both defendants’ last ditch efforts to display remorse today in Wollongong Court, Jaskaran Singh and Arpan Sharma’s fate were seemingly predetermined by judge Julia Baly who said the pair’s stupidity cost 19-year-old Libby Ruge her life.
Arpan Sharma had been drinking on the night of November 7th 2020 and was in the passenger seat of his Toyota being driven by his friend Jaskaran Singh.
The car sped through the streets of Wollongong while Sharma pulled on the handbrake three times, eventually causing the car to lose control on Flinders Street.
It collided with three people, including Libby Ruge, who died at the scene.
The judge said Singh and Sharma were being hoons and showing off.
Singh was sentenced to 6 years with a non parole period of 4 years, while Sharma was sentenced to 5 years with a non parole period of 3 years & 4 months.
Libby’s parents took the stand today to address the impact of their loss. Judge Baly said their statements were heartbreaking.
Despite the trial concluding in May, both defendants made a last ditch effort to show they were remorseful. Singh tried with a handwritten letter, and Sharma took the stand. But, Judge Baly lost patience and the pair didn’t receive any sentencing discount for remorse.
Libby was an aspiring dentist, and passionate cellist who was set on marrying her long term boyfriend.
“Very grateful to Judge Baly. I think she was strong, but very fair” – Julie Ruge, mother of Libby Ruge.
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