Drunk driver who killed Google developer sentenced to 48 months

As governor Christine Gregoire prepares to sign a bill which would double the penalty for vehicular homicide, the drunk driver accused of killing a well-liked Google developer was sentenced Friday in King County Superior Court.

Patrick Rexroat, 56, was sentenced to the statutory maximum of 48 months in prison for the July 2011 death of Steve Lacey. He received an additional year for misdemeanor reckless driving.

Rexroat struck Lacey’s car on I-405 near Kirkland while involved in a separate road rage incident. Witnesses say Rexroat was chasing another car when he lost control, crossed a center line, and smashed head-on into Lacey, who died instantly. His blood alcohol level was .29, more than three times the legal limit.

“Steve was not meant to die alone and in a car, without us to hold his hand and console him,” Nabila Lacey, Steve’s wife said at sentencing. “He deserved love, remorse and compassion.”

Nabila Lacey was among five friends and family members who spoke at sentencing, asking Judge Sharon Armstrong to give Rexroat the maximum 48 months. The defense had requested she sentence Rexroat to 40 months.

“I ask that you do whatever is in your power to make him suffer as long as possible, because we will suffer for a lifetime,” said Lacey’s friend, Samantha Idle.

Rexroat, who was present for his sentencing, apologized to Lacey’s family.

“I would gladly take the man’s place were it possible,” he said. “I’m very ashamed, I’m very sorry and I apologize.”

Following Lacey’s death, prosecutors for King and Pierce counties sought to increase the penalty for drunk drivers who kill, through a legislative bill they called their “top legislative priority.”

The bill, which passed with little opposition in the Washington State House and Senate, would increase the sentencing range for vehicular homicide to between 78-102 months for a first offense.

The bill has been sent to the governor’s desk for her approval.