David Cassady is awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to criminal negligence causing death.
In July 2015, Cassady was driving nearly 190 km/hr on the EC Row Expressway while texting and struck a motorcycle killing 66-year-old Don Russell.
During a sentencing hearing the crown in the case asked for a four to six-year prison sentence with a 10-year probation on driving. The defence is requesting a two-year prison sentence plus community service and a five-year probation on driving.
The defence says texting caused the accident while speed and alcohol were aggravating factors. At the time of the accident, there was alcohol detected in Cassady's system but it was below the legal limit.
A number of character references were submitted during the hearing on Cassady's behalf calling him a hard working, responsible, community minded individual.
Cassady also addressed the court to express his remorse for his actions. He stated he takes full responsibility for his actions and wishes he could trade places with the deceased to give Russell back to his family. He also expressed a willingness to speak to others about the dangers of distracted driving in hopes of preventing future accidents.
The judge reserved his sentence until Wednesday morning at 9:30am.
