Driver high on meth jailed for fatal crash
Robert Watson sentenced to 10 years and six months for killing Mako Sotto while driving high on meth while already disqualified.
Robert Dwayne Watson was high on methylamphetamine when his Holden ute veered into the oncoming lane on Albany Highway in Narrikup on April 24 last year. Watson hit a Nissan Micra head-on.
Sotto, a 30-year-old, died from his injuries. Watson was disqualified from driving and on bail at the time.
The WA Supreme Court heard Watson had an extremely high level of meth in his blood. It was likely consumed within four hours before the crash.
He pleaded guilty to manslaughter and was sentenced to 10 years and six months. He will be eligible for parole after eight years and six months.
He will be banned from holding a licence for 10 years after release. Judge Alain Musikanth said Watson's decision to drive after using meth showed complete disregard for other road users.
Why it mattersSends a clear message that driving while high on drugs will carry severe penalties, whether or not the driver is already disqualified.
AustraliaReinforces Australia's tough stance on impaired driving and dangerous road behaviour that kills people.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 5 h ago
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