Man Gets 17 Years for Death of SCDOT Worker

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — Thursday, a Lexington County judge sentenced 39 year old Thomas Stafford to 17 years in prison for Felony DUI Involving Death and Felony Hit and Run Involving Death. 

Stafford was charged after prosecutors say he struck 21 year old Nicholas Johnson, who was working with a SCDOT crew on I-20, on December 3, 2012 and kept going. 

Prosecutors say Stafford was under the influence of Methadone and Zanax. The Methadone, was reportedly of therapeutic doses, as it’s used to help someone get off an addiction to painkillers. Stafford also reportedly had three to four times the prescription limit. Prosecutors say he did not have alcohol in his system. 

Members of Stafford’s family and Johnson’s family attended today’s plea hearing. Stafford’s Mother pleaded for a reduced sentence. 

While, Johnson’s Mother read a letter from Johnson’s 12 year old younger cousin and asked for the maximum sentence. 

Stafford, himself, also spoke directly to the family and apologized. 

By law, Stafford has to serve at least 85% of his sentence before he can be released.