Speak Out: Was Huguely's Sentence Harsh Enough?
Chevy Chase native George Huguely V will likely be a middle-aged man when he is released from prison after serving time for the murder of Yeardley Love.
The Charlottesville trial that gripped the nation ended on Wednesday when George Huguely V of Chevy Chase was convicted of second-degree for the death of his ex-girlfriend Yeardley Love.
The jury deliberated for nine hours, ultimately agreeing the Huguely did not break into Love's apartment on May 2, 2010 with the intent to kill her.
In Virginia, second-degree murder carries a five- to 40-year sentence. Huguely, who stole Love's computer, was also found guilty of grand larceny, a charge which carries a prison sentencing ranging from one day to 20 years. The jury recommended Huguely serve 26 years in prison for both charges. He will be formally sentenced later this year.
In a USA Today article, legal experts believe he could be released in as few as 21 years if he is given credit for time already served in prison and good behavior.
Speak out: Were you shocked by the verdict? Is the recommended sentence harsh enough? Let us know in the comments section.
Mike Ritter
6:26 am on Saturday, February 25, 2012
Was I shocked at the conviction - no. Since he has not been sentenced yet, it's hard to say if it's fair. I think some of the jurors said it best, Hugely didn't know she had died. He was in total shock. Since there was no premeditation, they couldn't convict on 1st degree. The most he can get is 26 years. Many people have received far less time. 26 years for what it's worth is a very long time. Nothing can bring Ms Love back. Do not look for vengeance or retribution. No one wins in this case.
debbie parker
1:53 pm on Saturday, February 25, 2012
Second degree murder is exactly what i thought he should be convicted... no matter the amount of time of the sentence... it will not bring back yeardley love... we need to ask ourselves... is it an appropriate sentence to put this man in prison with career criminals? i dont think so... i think his time would be better spent assisting victim assistance programs or the like... he also needs to take part in an alcohol abuse program...
Elizabeth Ward
3:23 pm on Saturday, February 25, 2012
Criminals, career or otherwise, are criminals and deserve incarceration. Huguely took a life and even with 26 years in jail (if that recommendation is upheld) he wakes everyday and will enjoy birthdays, holidays, visits from family, etc. When he gets out at 45 (or less) he will have many years left of life. The fact that Yeardly cannot be brought back is entirely his fault and he deserves to pay with part of his life.
jnrentz1
4:13 pm on Sunday, February 26, 2012
I thought that First Degree Murder was proved. However, the jury convicted Huguely of Second Degree Murder and we have to live with that. An earlier commenter said not to look for retribution or vengeance. Retribution is a morally acceptable reason for punishment. The twenty-six years recommended by the jury is lenient.
I hope that the Love family receives the Peace they deserve, and I hope the same for the Huguely family.