THREE WAYS YOU CAN HELP
It is important that we not stand by idly in the face of tragedy. In Robert's name and through the example of how he lived, we should do everything we can to learn from this and make a difference. The first thing is to take a step back and look at how Robert lived his life: by openly sharing love with family and friends, by being true to himself and his beliefs, and by taking care of others. He was an example for young and old on how to give back and how to embrace those that are close to you. This is most important. In addition, there are opportunities to get involved with the Robert Vasen Foundation, and to learn more about DUI laws in order to speak up and initiate change. |
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1. Stay Informed If you would like to stay informed of the Robert Vasen Foundation or any other related news, please sign up for the mailing list. |
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2. Robert Vasen Foundation With your help, we are enacting positive change in Robert’s name through the Robert Vasen Foundation. This organization has been established as an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit to carry on Robert’s work in the community and to continue to inspire others through his generosity and the way in which he lived. Visit the Foundation page for more infomation. |
3. DUI Information "If someone is convicted of vehicular homicide by being under the influence of alcohol or drugs and does not have any prior convictions, they will probably receive a 3 year sentence." Taking a life will only result in a 3 year sentence. Although a life is gone, and the family’s life changed forever, the life of the assailant will only be impacted for a few short years. In Washington State, Vehicular Homicide by DUI carries a lesser penalty than Trafficking, Kidnapping, Leading Organized Crime, Assault, and Murder. DUI Homicide is currently on the same level as offenses such as robbery. Something is wrong with this. This comparison is not meant to downplay the severity of these other crimes. Rather, it is meant to show how excusable DUI Homicide is under current laws. DUI Homicide is not an accident. It is a series of deliberate decisions that leads to the killing of another person. Robert’s killer killed 1 and injured 4. He had a blood alcohol level of .16. He was going 55-70mph on a city street - nearly twice the speed limit - and had 6 people in his 5 person car when he chose to run a red light. Despite all this, he faces a maximum of 5 1/2 years in prison - which is reduced to 3 1/2 with the inevitable time off for good behavior. This is absolutely and terribly wrong. Robert’s family will suffer forever, and his killer will be free in a few short years, with no lasting penalties. Please share this information, and your reaction, with others. Laws will not change unless people know the truth and start to speak up. Habits will not change until we start to acknowledge the problem, talk about it openly, and start to influence those around us. Related articles: Learn more: Homicide by DUI is currently a Level IX offense in the state of Washington |