Ronan Keating criticizes justice system after driver gets suspended sentence for crash that killed his brother, Ciaran Keating, in County Mayo, Ireland.
Ciaran Keating died in a car crash last July. The crash happened in County Mayo, Ireland. The accident site is known to be dangerous. Ciaran was going to his son’s football game. His wife, Annmarie, was also hurt; she missed his funeral because of her injuries.
Dean Harte drove the other car. He admitted to careless driving, which caused death. The judge gave Harte a suspended sentence: 17 months and a driving ban. The ban lasts for two years, according to news reports.
Ronan said the sentence was a “devastating example.” He feels the system is “broken.” He thinks someone can kill and walk free, as there was no real punishment in jail.
Ronan believes the light sentence sets a bad example. He wonders why road accidents keep happening and thinks that people in power ignore the system’s flaws. He also expressed shame about the court’s decision.
Ronan said his family will keep fighting for justice. He also thinks of other families in similar situations. He hopes no one else has to go through this.
Harte’s lawyer called the crash a tragedy in court. He admitted the Keating family’s lives changed forever. He said Harte sent a letter with “genuine remorse,” but the Keating family refused his apology.
Annmarie Keating’s victim impact statement was read in court. Her son, Conall, read it aloud. Annmarie described Ciaran as her life’s love, stating she will never be the same again.