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Kentucky Legislature Considers Keeping Drunk Drivers from Early Release

A Jefferson County mother is pleading with Kentucky lawmakers to end shock probation for those convicted of killing someone while driving intoxicated.  Debbie Moskwa testified Thursday before a judiciary committee in Frankfort.  Her son was killed by a drunk driver and her husband severely injured in the accident. 

"We believed those that killed Ricky would be punished to the fullest extent of the law," said Moskwa.  "

Little did we know we would be inflicted with more pain by hearing shock probation was granted after the person served only eight months of a 13-year sentence."

Moskwa testified in support of a bill sponsored by Representative Julie Adams.  The measure would prohibit shock probation if a person is convicted of second-degree manslaughter or reckless homicide while under the influence of alcohol.  Similar bills in past session have failed to clear both the House and Senate.

Lisa is a Scottsville native and WKU alum. She has worked in radio as a news reporter and anchor for 18 years. Prior to joining WKU Public Radio, she most recently worked at WHAS in Louisville and WLAC in Nashville. She has received numerous awards from the Associated Press, including Best Reporter in Kentucky. Many of her stories have been heard on NPR.