A Brantford judge denies that Devinderjit Singh Hothi’s dangerous actions warrant a characterization as a ‘mistake’ after he was shot at by police officers following a reckless driving incident. Hothi, 44, struck three police vehicles and drove toward officers at a Petro Canada gas station while being prohibited from driving—in an escalating situation that led one officer to fire at least five shots. According to the judge, Justice Robert Gee, Hothi’s behavior represented a clear disregard for public safety, especially given his extensive criminal record related to motor vehicle offenses.
The incident, which transpired on January 12, 2024, began when police found Hothi sleeping in a van parked in a handicapped spot. After officers attempted to awaken him, he reversed into a police vehicle, prompting a dangerous chase. Hothi ultimately pled guilty to several driving offenses, but the judge highlighted that his choices reflected a conscious decision to engage in criminal behavior, thus leading to a severe 27-month sentence instead of time served. This judgment underscores the seriousness of reckless driving and its potential consequences for public safety.
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