Street Racer Who Caused Fatal Crash Avoids Jail Time Despite Attorney General’s Appeal
In recent events, Justice Neville Camilleri has upheld the suspended jail term for Ayrton D’Amato Quintano, a driver who caused a fatal accident during an illegal street race in Luqa back in 2013.
The Attorney General’s request for a more strict sentence was denied, leaving many questioning the punishment.
D’Amato Quintano, who was a 19-year-old delivery man from Ħamrun back then, was racing on 21st September 2013, when the car crashed into a Mitsubishi, causing the death of 55-year-old Filomeno Bonavia.
Ayrton D’Amato Quintano
The young driver was later found guilty of involuntary homicide, receiving a one-year jail term suspended for two years, a €2,000 fine, a one-year driving ban, and was ordered to pay for court experts’ expenses.
The court also recommended him to seek professional help to overcome the trauma induced by the accident and placed him under a two-year supervision order.
The ruling triggered an appeal from the Attorney General’s office, insisting that the given punishment was “manifestly disproportionate” given the gravity of the case.
However, Justice Camilleri refused to amend the sentence, arguing that D’Amato Quintano’s case was unique.
The probation officer’s social inquiry report emphasised the need for the Quintano to continue leading a structured life while registering progress.
Referencing the report, Justice Camilleri mentioned the clean record of the accused and his age at the time of the incident. He acknowledged the gravity of undervaluing human life, but reiterated that not every case involving an involuntary death warrants an effective jail term.
Justice Camilleri cited case law indicating that remorse is a significant factor considered during sentencing, and pointed to a similar case where a jail term was reversed after noting that the driver’s remorse would be a lifelong burden.
“In cases of involuntary manslaughter, our courts were always ready to condemn the action but when it comes to condemning the person, they always saw the particular circumstances of the case,” Justice Camilleri commented.
“This was an unfortunate accident that left tragic consequences, but for justice to be done, the court does not think that it should go to the extremes of the law and impose an effective prison sentence.”
Franco Debono and Marion Camilleri served as the defence counsel.
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