Hughes, Minot, sentenced to six years for vehicular manslaughter
Harry Dale Hughes Jr., 43, Minot, was sentenced on Friday to 10 years in prison, with a requirement that he serve six, followed by three years of supervised probation for driving a motorcycle while drunk on April 25, crashing into a lighted railroad crossing arm that was down on Valley Street, and killing his passenger, Daylene A. Gladue, 42.
Hughes’ blood alcohol content was .13 at the time and he had a prior DUI conviction.
Hughes pleaded guilty to the Class A felony vehicular homicide charge and apologized to the victim’s family for his actions. The victim’s mother told the judge that Gladue’s children are grieving and have been profoundly affected by the loss, as has she.
Judge Gary Lee said he is sorry for all involved and believes Hughes when he says this will never happen again, but he would follow the state’s recommended sentence.
Hughes will not be eligible for parole for at least three years under state law. Judge Lee also ordered that Hughes obtain a chemical dependency evaluation and, when he is serving probation, Judge Lee also ordered that he must also participate in the 24/7 Sobriety Program.
According to statements made in court at the sentencing hearing, Hughes and Gladue had gone out drinking together that night prior to the accident. Neither was wearing a helmet and both struck their heads on the crossing arm. Hughes was injured and Gladue was killed.