Bush Pleads Guilty in Deputy's Death
posted 8:10 pm Fri March 28, 2008 - Bedford Co., VA
reporter:
Manuel Quinones
posted by:
Webteam
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A tearful apology Friday from a woman accused of contributing to the death of Campbell County deputy Jason Saunders. Heather Bush pleaded guilty to eluding police and involuntary manslaughter.
The plea brings some closure for the Saunders family and knowing that Heather Bush was sentenced to seven years. It was while their son Jason was responding to her chase last year that he crashed his car and died. It's the one word friends and family of Deputy Jason Saunders wanted to hear from Heather Bush.
Heather Bush, Defendant - "Guilty."
Jason's mom Peggy is pleased with the guilty plea, but she's still not sure it's justice.
Peggy Saunders, Jason's Mom - "That's hard to say because nothing is going to bring my son home."
The family says at least they can now move on.
Saunders - "I am glad it's over. We needed it to be over. I kinda wish she had gotten more years but I am satisfied with what she did get."
Heather Bush was originally charged with second degree murder. But prosecutors and the Saunders family say agreeing to the lesser charge is a way to avoid a lengthy court battle.
Saunders - "I feel like we can concentrate more on the good memories. And put this behind us. Because we have a lot of good memories."
Randy Krantz, Commonwealth's Attorney - "While there is no excuse for what she did, we hope people remember what the risk these officers do when they go out every day."
Sheriff Terry Gaddy, Campbell County - "Anyone in the future thinking of running from law enforcement, may be consequences that they will look at."
Now Heather Bush is facing the consequences of her actions.
Bush - "I would just like to apologize to the Saunders family. I am very sorry."
Saunders - "Yes she did apologize and I just take it for what it's worth."
Bush is getting credit for time served, so she'll spend about six more years in prison for the guilty pleas. But add legal troubles she has in Chesterfield County right now and Bush could end up spending even more time behind bars.
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