This archive report was first published on 22 November 2019.
On March 31, 2016, a tragic incident occurred in Massachusetts, resulting in the death of a state trooper, Thomas Clardy. The incident led to a lengthy trial and ultimately, a conviction of David Njuguna, a 33-year-old Kenyan-born man.
According to reports, Njuguna was sentenced to 5-7 years in prison after a series of emotional impact statements from Clardy's family members, including his wife, Reisa Clardy.
Reisa Clardy described her husband's death as 'truly overwhelming' for the family, stating, 'Because of a selfish and senseless act his life was cut short.' She added, 'Our stability, our normalcy, our peace of mind, our strength is no longer here.'
During the sentencing, Judge Janet Kenton-Walker acknowledged the family's pain, saying, 'I cannot bring you comfort, I cannot bring you peace, I cannot take the day away, I cannot make it right.'
According to BostonHerald.com, the judge stated that her sentence offered 'some retribution and some thoughts about rehabilitation.'
Colonel Christopher Mason, superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police, released a statement expressing the department's disappointment with the sentence, stating, 'No sentence can return Trooper Clardy to those who loved him and love him still.'
Njuguna was found guilty on four of six counts, including involuntary manslaughter, misdemeanour motor vehicle homicide, operating to endanger, and driving an uninsured vehicle. He was given credit for 1,283 days served while awaiting trial.
