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Show C001 841 flUT03-DIG- T COSEBIO--S OJTLIBW fefViTY UT 341.2 .3 Vol. 69 No. 31 Friday, August 11,2000 Coalville, Utah 84017 Leavitt Sentenced In Third District Court Regional News Notes PAMELA ROBBINS Referring to an APP (Adult Parole and Bee Editor i Judge Robert K. Hilder banded down a ruling in the State vt Loren Leavitt case on Tuesday, August 8, 2000. Within the chambers of the Third District Courtroom at the Summit County Justice Court, Leavitt was sentenced to the full extent allowed by law with the verdict he was given- - 0-- 5 years in Prison. The Judge staled he was going to "personally write a letter to the parole board recommending that you the defendant serve out every single day of the full five year sentence. These words brought tears, applause, shouts and sighs of relief from the victims family. Leavitt, age 32, was convicted in June of Criminal Homicide, Child Abuse Homicide, Third Degree Felony in the February IS death of GayLynn Goalens' 22 month old son, Wyatt Radmall. Before making his ruling on the case. Judge Hilder listened to Defense Attorney, Gerry DEIia present his final plea on behalf of the lives. Brickey stated the irony of the situation, is that, even if the defendant is given the full five years, he will be out at age 37. Still time to talk with his Family, hug his kids, speqd holidays with them, said Brickey. Wyatt will never see his family, he was taken from them. They can only visit a tombstone." In an extremely emotional moment, Shane Radmall, a brother to Wyatt's mother spoke on behalf of the family. We loved Wyatt. This is the hardest thing I have ever had to da I want to thank the prosecution and those involved in helping to solve the case, said 'Radmall. He then quoted from the scriptures Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same Is greatest in die kingdom of Heaven. But, who So shall offend one of these little ones which belie veth in me--it were better a millstone were hanged about his necki and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea. GayLytn will never see Wyatt attend school, attend College, see him get married or see his grandchildren. We ask that the court send Loren Probation) report that stated Leavitt did not have a good attitude for probation, D'Elia said simply, I say there is. He belongs to a good, supportive family. Prison would be a hardship case for him because he could not help support his children. D'Elia read from a letter Leavitt had written to him several weeks ago. In it. Leavitt wrote he was sorry for the tragic accident, saying he had grieved over it for six months and would, forever. If I could trade places with Wyatt I would, wrote Leavitt. He went on to say if he receives parole he would continue to support his family, go on with life, and become a positive member of society. Although saying his client was too emotional to speak to the court at length today, Leavitt did make a brief apology to GayLynn and her family for the problems he caused. The recommendation from die defense table was probation with time served (165 days); one year community service, restitution ($10,470.00); and counseling. The State was represented by Attorney Dave Brickey. There was no doubt that Dr. Grey testified defendant. This has been a tragic incident, and anything that occurs today will not bring Wyatt back. There will not be a win for Wyatt, Loren death was caused by Intercranial or the public." It is obviously an emotional time. Wyatt's Hemorrhaging, and death would have occurred A tragic loss has happened-th- e saddest day in within one hour. With the jury verdict-th- e family Loren's life, said DElia didn't understand. Now, they would Wyatts In speaking about the report, like to have an appropriate sentence for the DElia told the court there was not enough evi- case, said. The defendant said he dence to suggest his client would not be a good couldntBrickey remember throwing Wyatt through the probationary risk, stating his previous problems door. But, it is interesting in reading letters (in were minor and uneventful. the documents) which indicate it Mentioning letters submitted by Leavitts was his (Leavitt's) habit to throw things and girlfriends, DElia said, "Sometimes around. there are hard feelings and some things just In referring to the defendant's ability to avoid come out. Regardless, they never said. There truthfulness, Brickey said the letters speak volwere no criminal charges filed by them. It was umes about him. In his most recent theft not as severe as the letters indicate. charge, a gun owned by his uncle was discovAs to his conduct, Leavitts attorney said ered by a sister in his vehicle. He said he never Loren has been good to children. He has been look else must have." the best he can be, meeting his obligations to his Out of 25 letters included in the children for their child support He tried to be a report, three were from people who lived good father. Nothing points to his being a danger with the defendant- - wives and girlfriends. to children, that is not the case. Excerpts from the letters included a wedding As to being a danger to himself he could get night of abuse and being thrown into a wall", treatment so far he hasn't repeivrd any, There is most man 1 ever met". He shared no indication shown where he would he a harm .intimatemanipulative moments with me. He exhibited his true to society. self to me. He has shown no remorse for the The attorney told the court that should Loren victim-N- o for the family. If Wyatt had receive probation. He would like to move to never met regardnever him, stayed with Leavitt, he Florida, where he has family members living, so would be here he is dead. The But, today. he would not be a bother to the victims family. family has suffered a great impact on their es Summit Comity Celebration Day With the Winter Olympics arriving in the year 2002, Summit County residents will have an opportunity to learn more about the upcoming events as they attend a Summit County Celebration Day. It has been planned to give people throughout the County a taste of Olympic sports and the athletes, as well as learning more about the events Summit County will be hosting. The Celebration Day will be held on Saturday, August 19, 2000, from 10 a.m to 7 p.m., at the Trailside Park in Snyderville Basin. Features will include: "Otto the Otter" one of the Olympic Games mascots, A Healthier You 2002-Gol- d Medal Mile Walk"- - the first 500 to complete the one mile walk will receive a pin. (1-- 3 p.m.). Short Sport"-childre- n will have an opportunity to try Olympic sports auch as Bobsleigh, Luge, Alpine Ski Racing, Sledge Hockey, Speed Skating, Curling and Freestyle Aerials on a bungee system, "Volleyball Tournament, Entertainment by local Summit County residents, former and aspiring Olympic Athletes, prize drawings, food and beverage concessions to benefit Summit County youth organizations and activities. Learn how you can become a volunteer, inside the competition venue or through the Summit CountyPark City Chamber and Visitors Bureau. Kamas Social to Prison for the maximum sentence, stated Radmall After bearing from both sides, Judge Hilder stated, I sat through the trial, listened to the evi- dence presented, watched the demeanor of Leavitt and read the report. It takes significant insight to judge, each case is different Sometimes they overlap, sometimes they are callous and outrageous. 1 believe Leavitt does care for children. I believe he thought being a father meant being in control. I believe he had a sincere objective and did not set out to kill a child. In August 2000 1 believe we yet need to hear what happened. I doubt we ever will. He lies to change the facts to fit the circumstances. This sentence will be done with an eye to rehabilitation. For the first time in your life, you will face the consequences of your actions. Judge Hilder then gave the sentence, adding You need time to tliink-t- o face yourself. After the verdict. Attorney Brickey commented, My heart goes out to GayLynn and her family. The past six months has been like bearing a child. Nowit i over. This is a just and fair is$propriai.-- I concur completely with the Judge-w- e will never know what happened in that bathroom." ce The annual Kamas Utah Stake Summer Social "In the Good Ole Summer Time will be held on August 19th at the Stake Center Pavilion. 5 p.m. relay races, fish pond and other kids games-includivolleyball for the older youth. 5:30 p.m. Barbeque roast beef, potatoes, salads, pies, and homemade root beer. 7 p.m. Program. Everyone is invited for lots of food and fun!! ng Hillin For The Range Come enjoy an exhibition of fine horsemanship and celebrate open space space at the same time. Ridin For The Range takes place on Saturday. August 19 at the Oakley Rodeo Grounds. The exhibition features barrel racers, cutting horses, Arabians in Native Costume, and a parade of Summit County Champions, along with a small'carnival for the kids. The gates open at 3:00 p.m. and the show starts at 3:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the gates or by calling the number listed below. A VIP dinner reception, catered by Sean Wharton of the Gateway Grill, follows the exhibition. VIP tickets must be purchased in advance. For more information call Utah Open Lands at Abdicimers Support Group ver-dict-- it When exiting the courtroom, one family member stated. It is good to have this out of our way. It may not be enough, but now we can get on with our lives." An Authorized regional support group for the caregivers, family members and friends affected by Alzheimer's, will be held cm the 1st Monday of each month at the Serenity Ranch Assisted Living Facility in Oakley, beginning at 7:00 p.m. The meetings are open to the public for those wishing to receive information, direction and insight about the disease. For more information about the meetings, contact Abby Bakaric, R.N. at (435) 783-555- Olympic Sports Park Highway Accident Work Set In Motion 5. Summit Comity Bookmobile Hours aims Lives of Two Young Girls Hours for the Summit County Bookmobile Headquarters, located in the Coalville City Building have been extended as of August 7. The new hours are: from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday Monday-Thursda- y: from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed Fridays. Cannon To Host Ttmn Meeting PAMELA ROBBINS Bee Editor A family outing turned tragic when two young children from Roy, UT, Ashley Jorgensen, age 8 and Mercedes Summers, age 5, lost their lives in an accident near the UtahWyoming border on the Mirror Lake Highway. The accident happened on Friday evening at approximately 6:30 p.m. According to a UHP report, Craig T. Jorgensen and hit ton, Marc P. Jorgensen, were riding in the front of a 1973 GMC pick up truck with a camper on it. Riding in the camper was Kathy Jorgensen, the drivers wife and his daughter, Ashley, and his granddaughter, Mercedes. The vehicle was heading South, when the truck drifted to the right, and its right aide tires went off the road. The driver to the left, and then to the right Brakes were applied as the truck left the road at which time it then rolled down a steep hillside, coming to rest on its top, trapping the occupants of the camper inside. By sunders at the scene rolled the truck onto its wheels to gain access to the people inside the camper. All of the occupants were transported to the Evanston Regional Hospital, where Mr. and Mrs. Jorgensen and their son were treated for minor injuries. The two girls, Ashley and Mercedes were pronounced dead at the hospital. The accident is being investigated by the Utah Highway Patrol. over-correct- ed U.S. Rep, Chris Canyon (R-U- t) will host a town meeting in Heber on Tuesday, August 15, 7:00 County Courthouse, 25 North Main Street. Residents from the Third District of Utah County are encouraged to attend to voice their views, suggestions, frustrations or concerns on Federal issues with their Congressman Cannon. He would like your input on issues such as land management, prescription drug coverage under medicare, Social Security and veterans issue. p.m.-Wasat- ch Controversy Surrounds Mosquito Abatement Land Purchase Sentence Chen In Holland Case PAMELA ROBBINS Bee Editor PAMELA ROBBINS viewed from the Kimball's Junction Bee Editor region. I thought it would he a fun excursion to travel to what was formerly the With a large portion of the Olympic Winter Games scheduled to take place in Summit County, construction work can Winter Sports Park, now called the Olympic Park, to see just what is taking place. What I found was a pleasant surprise anJ gargantuan in itself. A truly fascinating experience. The jumps being constructed, complete with a special type of grass" will soon allow potential athletic compctiun a chance to try rut their skills. The colorful jumps are made complete with the addition of the Olympic Insignia. (See triatedphms on pageA4) be seen at each of the resort areas. hether it be homes and condos being raised to the skies ur roads being built to each the areas of the Olympic venues-truck- s ard equipment of all types and sizes can be viewed as Summit County prepares for the Olympics. In an effort to assist readers with whai is taking place in the area that can be In the early morning hours of June 29. 1999, a semi-accide- nt at Echo Junction claimed the life of Van A. Beavers, age 35, from Indiana. The driver of the semi. Marion L. Holland, age 48. of Ohio was convicted-following a bench trial- - of the offense of Negligent Homicide, a Class A. Misdemeanor. Holland was sentenced in Third District Court, presided over by Judge Robert K. Hilder, on August (poor copyI l I 1, 2000. The defendant was sentenced to serve 12 months in the Summit County Jail. Holland was1 granted a stay of execution of the above sentence and placed on court probation for a period of 36 months with several conditions, including home confinement for 60 only to obtain days-leavi- nj med- ical treatment, attorney visits or shopping. The defendant was ordered to write a letter of apology to the victims family, obtain mental health counseling, and complete 200 hours of community Shown above is the bouse the North Summit Mosquito Ababement Board recently puchased. BY PAMELA ROBBINS Bee Editor When the North Summit Mosquito Abatement Board recently purchased a home located directly under the Rockport Reservoir face, they thought they had done a ood thing, according to board President. John Jaussi. We had been looking at a site to house our office, supplier and four service trucks and when this house came up for sale we purchased it." Homeowners in the Wanship Cottages area think differently. Owning land directly around the proposed storage site, concern is centered around the fact they were not notified in advance of the planning strategy which the board had in mind. The areas of contention raised by the homeowners are: 1. Concern for contamination in their ground water system. 2. Environmental concerns Continued on page A4 |