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‘Make something of yourself’: Nevada judge hands down unique sentence in deadly DUI crash case

A Nevada judge sentenced Samantha Rapozo in October 2024 for a fatal DUI crash that occurred in December 2019 near Las Vegas.
Rapozo caused the crash by driving under the influence of marijuana, resulting in one friend’s death and injuries to several others.
Following an extended legal process, Rapozo agreed in October 2024 to a plea agreement involving a felony charge related to reckless driving that resulted in death and serious injury.
Judge Kimberly Wanker sentenced Rapozo to probation due to her declining health and required her to pay $205,000 in restitution, write apology letters, produce a video about the consequences of her actions, and participate in regular public speaking engagements. The judge encouraged her to transform this tragedy into a positive outcome by actively engaging with schools and community groups.
The unique sentence reflects the judge’s struggle with the decision and emphasizes rehabilitation and public awareness instead of prison time for Rapozo.

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