In a shocking turn of events, the family of Scottie Sherman, a construction worker who lost his life on the job, expresses deep dissatisfaction with the sentence given to Alexis Dubose, the driver responsible for the fatal accident. Despite admitting to drinking, speeding, and initially lying to authorities, Dubose received a sentence that the family feels is far too lenient. The incident occurred in Doraville, Georgia, where Sherman was working on Buford Highway. After nearly four years of waiting, the family now faces the harsh reality of what they believe is an unjust legal outcome.
In the early autumn of 2019, tragedy struck when Scottie Sherman, a dedicated construction worker, was struck by a vehicle while performing his duties on Buford Highway in Doraville. The driver, Alexis Dubose, admitted to consuming alcohol before crossing three lanes of traffic at an alarming speed of 74 mph in a 35 mph zone. Despite these aggravating factors, Dubose only faced a prison term of four years out of a ten-year sentence, leaving Sherman’s family heartbroken and outraged.
The family had been anxiously awaiting justice for nearly four years, during which Dubose remained free on bond. Upon learning of the plea deal and the judge's decision, Sherman’s daughter, Leneesha Morton, expressed her disbelief, feeling as though the punishment was a mere slap on the wrist. The family's attorney, Harold Spence, questioned the rationale behind such a lenient sentence, especially considering the severity of Dubose's actions and her initial deception.
The DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office stated that they had consulted with the Sherman family prior to making any offers. However, the family maintains that they never agreed to the terms of the plea deal. Sherman’s mother recounted the heartbreaking moment when her son’s coworker called her, repeating, “Let me speak to my mama,” which turned out to be his final words.
The DA’s office justified the plea deal by noting Dubose’s clean record and ensuring she would serve time in prison. Yet, this explanation did little to console the Sherman family, who view the outcome as a grave miscarriage of justice.
From a journalist’s perspective, this case highlights the complexities and often unpredictable nature of the legal system. It raises questions about the fairness of sentencing and the impact it has on victims' families. The Sherman family’s anguish serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost behind legal decisions and the importance of seeking justice that truly reflects the gravity of such tragic incidents.