An illegal immigrant has been convicted of a hit-and-run that resulted in the death of a University of South Carolina student. Rosali Fernandez-Cruz, 24, received a surprisingly lenient sentence of just one year in prison for killing 21-year-old Nathaniel Baker. This contrasts sharply with what state law allows, which is a maximum of 25 years for such a crime. The case highlights significant concerns regarding the treatment of illegal immigrants in the judicial system.
Nathaniel Baker was struck and killed while on his motorcycle earlier this year near the Columbia campus. After the crash, Fernandez-Cruz fled the scene, an act that would typically warrant severe repercussions. Yet his sentence raises questions about accountability, particularly for those in this country illegally.
The leniency of the sentencing is even more alarming considering the backdrop of Fernandez-Cruz’s history. Originally from El Salvador, he had been on the run from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) since 2018. He is set to serve his time at Kirkland Correctional Institution in Columbia and will be eligible for release by March 2026.
A spokesperson for the South Carolina Attorney General stated, “The judge decided the sentence, which was one year.” Reports indicate that Baker’s family was consulted ahead of the sentencing and agreed to the plea deal. “They did not want this to be politicized or highly publicized,” said Robert Kittle from the attorney general’s office, suggesting that the family preferred a more low-profile resolution.
However, such discretion may overlook the broader implications of the crime. A hit-and-run leading to death is a serious offense, and the state’s duty to uphold justice goes beyond individual family wishes. South Carolina law clearly states that serious repercussions should follow such grievous actions, especially when the offender is illegally residing in the country.
The charges Fernandez-Cruz initially faced included driving without a license, failure to yield, and failure to render aid, all of which were dismissed after he pleaded guilty to the hit-and-run. This dismissal points to a troubling trend where severe consequences are circumvented through legal maneuvers.
Fernandez-Cruz’s one-year sentence stands out starkly against the legal environment for American citizens. An American guilty of a similar crime would likely face far harsher scrutiny and punishment. Reports have emerged comparing this to other high-profile cases where the judicial process appears inconsistently applied. For instance, figures from the entertainment industry facing legal issues often endure more intense scrutiny than those involved in fatal incidents like that of Nathaniel Baker.
The disparity raises concerns about how justice is administered, particularly in cases involving illegal immigrants. Baker’s family may have agreed to the plea and sentence, but the decision ultimately lies with the judicial system, which should focus on public safety and justice for victims rather than appeasing individual families.
As Fernandez-Cruz approaches his release date, many are left wondering what accountability will follow. There are calls for ICE to ensure that when he is released from prison, appropriate steps are taken regarding his immigration status. The expectation is that the system should address the crimes of those who are illegally in the country, reinforcing the idea that this is a matter of public safety and adherence to the law.
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