By Trend News Line 2024-05-13 09:24:00.
A West Palm Beach man has been sentenced to more than 13 years in prison after pleading guilty to charges in a hit-and-run crash that resulted in the death of a pedestrian. Juan Luis Valladares, 27, admitted to one count each of vehicular homicide, DUI manslaughter, leaving the scene of a crash involving death, tampering with evidence, and falsely reporting a crime in connection with the tragic incident that took the life of 52-year-old Ramon Castellon.
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**The Sentencing**
During a court hearing, Circuit Judge Scott Suskauer handed down concurrent sentences of 13 years and six months for the homicide, manslaughter, and leaving the scene charges. Additionally, Valladares received a five-year sentence for tampering with evidence and 364 days for falsely reporting a crime. As part of the sentencing, Suskauer also revoked Valladares’ driver’s license for life.
**The Details of the Crash**
Prosecutors and investigators from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office revealed that Valladares was driving under the influence of alcohol on the night of May 21, 2023, when he struck and killed Castellon near Forest Hill Boulevard and Military Trail. Reports indicate that Valladares was speeding in his 2023 Dodge Charger, reaching a maximum speed of 106 mph just before the collision.
Witnesses at the scene stated that Valladares and a female passenger fled the vehicle after the crash and later returned home to change their clothing. Valladares then falsely reported his vehicle as stolen to authorities. The passenger, identified as Marina Mirabella, was arrested on charges of tampering with evidence and giving false information. She has pleaded not guilty and is scheduled to appear before Judge Suskauer for a hearing.
**Remembering Ramon Castellon**
Ramon Castellon, the victim of this tragic incident, was a 52-year-old member of the West Palm Beach community. He was known for his kindness and generosity, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Castellon’s family and friends continue to mourn his loss and remember him fondly for his positive impact on those around him.
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**Support for the Victims**
As this case moves forward, the community stands in support of the family and loved ones of Ramon Castellon. The tragic loss of life serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the devastating consequences of driving under the influence. The hope is that justice will be served, and measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
**Conclusion**
The sentencing of Juan Luis Valladares brings some closure to the case involving the hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of Ramon Castellon. As the legal process continues, the memory of Castellon lives on in the hearts of those who knew him. The community remains united in seeking justice for the victim and his family, while also advocating for safer roads and responsible driving practices..
“Driver lied to PBSO after car killed pedestrian”
“Judge sentences driver who lied to PBSO after car killed pedestrian”.
