The drunk driver who tragically killed a newlywed bride just after her wedding reception last year is now asking a judge to reduce her prison sentence.
Jamie Lee Komoroski, 26, has filed a 77-page request with Ninth Judicial Circuit Judge Deadra L. Jefferson, urging the court to reconsider her 25-year sentence. Komoroski, who pleaded guilty earlier this month, admitted to several charges, including felony DUI causing great bodily injury, felony DUI resulting in death, and reckless homicide.
Her sentencing on December 2 in South Carolina was swift. The court handed her 15 years for each DUI injury charge, 25 years for the DUI death charge, and 10 years for reckless homicide. However, all the sentences are being served at the same time, meaning her total prison term is 25 years.
In her plea, Komoroski’s legal team argues that the punishment is unfair and much harsher compared to similar cases in South Carolina and nearby states. They pointed out that in many cases like hers, people have received sentences as short as three to 18 years, even for incidents involving multiple deaths. While some cases in Charleston County have had 25-year sentences, those were often suspended, with the actual time served being closer to 16 years.
The heartbreaking crash happened in Folly Beach, South Carolina, as Samantha Miller, 34, and her new husband, Aric Hutchinson, were leaving their wedding reception. Komoroski, heavily intoxicated, was driving 65 mph in a residential area with a 25-mph speed limit. She slammed into the golf cart carrying the couple, killing Samantha and seriously injuring Aric, along with two family members.
Authorities reported that Komoroski refused a field sobriety test and claimed she had only had “one beer and a tequila drink.” However, a blood test revealed her blood alcohol level was .261—more than three times the legal limit.
In her request to reduce the sentence, Komoroski’s lawyers acknowledged the seriousness of her actions but argued that the judge did not fully consider her background or efforts to make amends. They highlighted several factors they believe should lead to a lighter sentence:
- Komoroski had no prior criminal record or history of violence.
- She pleaded guilty to spare the victims’ families from a painful trial.
- There was no intent to harm anyone.
- She has struggled with alcohol addiction and has taken steps toward recovery.
- She has expressed deep remorse for her actions.
- Her character, history, and potential for rehabilitation were overlooked.
- She accepted full responsibility for the crash.
Her defense team also noted that in many similar cases, even repeat DUI offenders received shorter sentences. They argued that public and media attention likely influenced the outcome of her case, leading to what they describe as an excessive punishment.
“Other defendants who pleaded guilty to similar charges received some credit for their pleas, sparing families the trauma of a trial,” the motion states. “But Ms. Komoroski’s case attracted significant media attention, which seems to have played a role in her receiving the harshest penalty allowed by law.”
The defense compared her sentence to cases in states like Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and Virginia, where penalties for drunk driving deaths typically don’t exceed 20 years.
Komoroski’s lawyers are now asking Judge Jefferson to take another look at the case, hoping to reduce her time behind bars. Meanwhile, the families impacted by the tragedy continue to grapple with their loss, as the legal battle surrounding the heartbreaking crash unfolds.
