Carolyn Oltman's killer faces sentencing--input from public accepted

Carolyn Oltman, a long time Alacosta member, Kathy McIntes-Lees, and Carolyn's dog Holly were killed on December 1, 2002, in an automobile accident returning from a dive at Van Damme. The defendant, Douglas Hirscher, pleaded no contest to 2 counts of vehicular manslaughter and 1 count of hit and run. Judgment and sentencing is scheduled for October 10, 2003, at 1:30 PM in Department B at the Ukiah Courthouse. If you are planning on attending, call 1-800-785-3332 or 1-707-463-4218 to verify the time and date of the hearing.

Anyone can submit an impact statement to the probation department. This statement can sent via email to torresp@co.mendocino.ca.us, or sent via snail mail or fax at the address listed below.

Here is a letter from the Victim Witness Advocate explaining the process:

August 14, 2003

RE: Douglas Hirscher, DA Case #F03-53876 Date of Crime: December 1, 2002

Dear DOROTHY,

We would like to take this opportunity to assist you. The defendant pleaded no contest to a violation of PC 192(C)(1) - Vehicular Manslaughter (2 counts) and to a violation of VC 20001(C) - Hit and Run. Judgment and Sentencing will be on October 10, 2003 at 1:30pm in Department B at the Ukiah Courthouse.

You have a right to participate in the sentencing process. In each criminal case the judge may grant probation with jail time and other conditions, or in felony cases the judge may sentence the defendant to state prison. The judge will consider a report from the Probation Department, which can include your statement. You may express your opinion as to how the crime has affected you, your family, and your life; what the defendant's sentence should be; and, any financial losses that have resulted from the crime. Your statement will be a part of the court record and will be seen by the defendant and the defense attorney.

We encourage you to do the following:

1. Contact the Probation Department at PO Box 303, Ukiah, CA 95482, 707-463-4271 and give a statement to the Probation Officer preparing the report.
2. Write a letter to the Judge. Mail or fax it to Probation at 707-463-5461 so that it will be included in the report.
3. Attend the sentencing and speak directly to the court.

Anything you submit in writing should reach probation no less than five working days prior to the sentencing. Please call Victim Witness a few days before the sentencing and we will confirm the date and time and discuss Probation's recommendation. If further information is necessary, we can arrange a meeting with the prosecuting attorney.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at our main office in the Ukiah Courthouse, Room 501, 707-463-4218 or 800-785-3332.

Sincerely,

Patricia Torres Victim Witness Advocate