A Clare family whose daughter was killed by a drunk driver have saved him from serving more than six years in a US prison.
A Pennsylvania judge praised the compassion of the Brohan family from Ennis after they said they appreciated the remorse shown by Joseph Livoti, who killed their daughter, Margaret.
Ms Brohan (19) had been touring in the US with an Irish dance troupe, Rhythm of the Dance, when Livoti's pick-up truck hit the Volkswagen car she was travelling in on November 12th, 2003.
Allegheny County Judge David R. Cashman was so dismayed by the killing he wanted to throw out a plea bargain prosecutors had worked out with Livoti (27) of Indiana County, Pennsylvania.
But the judge said he had read letters from Ms Brohan's friend and family and was moved by her family's understanding.
"The compassion the Brohans have shown is a tribute to Margaret, and I will not besmirch that memory," Judge Cashman said.
He said he would keep to the plea agreement, under which Livoti pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide in exchange for a prison sentence of three to six years.
His lawyer, Mr Sumner Parker, told The Irish Times that his client might enter a one-year prison boot camp system that would allow him gain early parole.
Ms Brohan's family released a statement in which they "implored people who still take the stupid chance and drive under the influence of alcohol to think about the consequences".