Driver in DUI crash that killed Ventura County sheriff’s deputy sentenced
The man who hit and killed a Ventura County Sheriff’s deputy while driving drunk in Camarillo has been sentenced to 15 years to life in prison.
Kevin Hogrefe was sentenced Monday morning by Ventura County Superior Court Judge Matthew Guasco.
Before Guasco announced the sentence he said,”This is by far the most difficult case I have ever dealt with.”
Guasco sentenced Hogrefe to 15 years to life for the second degree murder charge and an additional three years for fleeing the scene of an accident. The sentences are to be served concurrently.
In October, Hogrefe was found guilty by a jury of second degree murder in the death of Eugene Kostiuchenko, and felony fleeing the scene of an accident. Kostiuchenko had just wrapped up a traffic stop when Hogrefe struck him along the Lewis Road onramp to Highway 101 northbound in October of 2014. Records show Hogrefe was driving drunk with a blood alcohol level three times the legal limit.
Before Guasco announced Hogrefe’s sentence, several personal impact statements were made by Kostiuchenko’s family.
“My request is for him to receive the maximum sentence the law affords us. he had two more years then he should have had. He enjoyed his family and friends and did what he wanted to do, where was Eugene during this time in a graveyard. I have no sympathy,” said Kostiuchenko’s Stepson, Tristan Kelley.
“I have no compassion for Mr. Hogrefe. He has robbed Eugene of his life and has deeply harmed all of those who had come to love and rely on Eugene. The defendant here today has crushed us and left us all in pieces,” said Kostiuchenko’s widow, Maura Kelley.
Hogrefe’s father also spoke at the sentencing as well as his Alcoholics Anonymous sponsor.
“Please find it within your hearts to understand Kevin’s actions and forgive him. I beg you for any understanding and kindness and forgiveness that you can allow in this matter. I respectfully ask that you please give him the same consideration at this time as if he was a beloved member of your family. Kevin is indeed a most beloved and important member of our family,” said Hogrefe’s father, Scott Hogrefe.
Under his sentence Hogrefe will not be able to apply for parole until after he has served 15-years.
The widow of Kostiuchenko has filed a civil suit against Hogrefe claiming negligence. She is seeking an undisclosed amount of money. A hearing on the civil suit is set for March.
