LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Joseph Siami, 32, accepted a plea deal on Monday, facing up to 20 years in prison for the 2021 drunk driving crash that killed University of Kentucky student Chase Lawson, 20.
Siami was originally charged with murder after crashing into Lawson's vehicle on LaGrange Road, resulting in Lawson's death at the hospital. Two other passengers survived the incident.
In court, Siami acknowledged he had consumed multiple alcoholic beverages and was speeding at the time of the crash. He pleaded guilty to second-degree manslaughter, with the prosecution recommending a 10-year sentence.
He also faced two counts of first-degree assault, which were reduced to second-degree assault. The prosecution suggested five years for each of these charges, recommending all sentences be served consecutively, totaling 20 years.
Additionally, Siami is charged with first-degree criminal mischief, for which a five-year sentence is recommended, and operating a vehicle under the influence, with a recommended 30 days in jail. Both sentences are suggested to run concurrently with the 20-year sentence. A $100 fine for speeding is also proposed.
Sabrina Hill, a regional manager for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), attended the hearing to support Lawson's family. She emphasized the lasting impact of the tragedy, stating, “The moment you decide to get in a vehicle after you've been drinking or using drugs, you then turn that vehicle into a weapon.”
Siami's sentencing hearing is set for May. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case.