Teen involved in fatal wreck receives delay of sentence
ISHPEMING — The teenager who caused a June accident in Ishpeming that killed two motorists has received a delay of sentence.
19-year-old Raymond Anderson of Ishpeming stood before Judge Roger Kangas in 96th District Court Wednesday for sentencing.
Members of both of the victims’ families were given time to speak and both urged Judge Kangas to not grant leniency to Anderson. However, Judge Kangas said he found nothing to suggest that a delay of sentence would be inappropriate.
“I can honestly say that, whether people believe it or not, I don’t think this court could really punish Mr. Anderson more severely than what he’s dealing with,” Judge Kangas said.
Anderson’s delay of sentence will last 12 months.
He must complete an online driving safety course, stay clear of alcohol and non-prescribed drugs, and pay a number of fines. If he completes his delay of sentence without incident the offense will be wiped from his record.
Anderson was initially charged with two counts of ‘moving violation, causing death’ after an accident on US-41 that killed 64-year-old Gary Kappler of Ahmeek and 52-year-old Diane Palosaari of Mohawk.
Anderson tried to turn left from the highway onto Lakeshore Drive and entered the path of the victims’ motorcycle.