MATLACHA, Fla. — A deadly drunk driver has been sentenced to 24 years in prison after causing a tragic accident that claimed the life of an 80-year-old woman outside a local establishment.
Cody Curtis, facing the weight of his actions in court, pleaded no contest, a choice reflecting his acceptance of punishment without admitting guilt. This situation unfolded back in April 2024 when Curtis struck Mary Lou Sharpe, who was enjoying her meal outside That BBQ Place in Matlacha, alongside four other innocent bystanders.
As he prepared for sentencing, Curtis addressed the families in the courtroom, many of whom bore the heavy burden of grief. He expressed remorse, acknowledging he could not expect their forgiveness. His thoughts, he shared, revolve around Sharpe’s memory daily.
“I would never believe that one day my actions would take someone’s life and cause significant harm to others,” Curtis said, his voice filled with anguish. “It pains me to know my mistake has resulted in such tragedy. I truly am very sorry. The weight of this accident will stay with me forever.”
In a bid for redemption, Curtis committed to attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings while incarcerated, vowing to campaign against DUI-related deaths upon his release. This pledge illustrates a pivotal moment of introspection, recognizing that every choice holds a ripple effect that extends far beyond the individual.
Authorities revealed Curtis had a blood alcohol concentration of .137%, significantly above the legal limit. His sentence requires him to serve each charge consecutively, beginning with a mandatory four-year term for DUI manslaughter, although he received credit for 268 days already served.
Moreover, a judge has revoked Curtis’ driving privileges for life, symbolizing the serious repercussions of his reckless behavior. The case itself faced complications; Curtis attempted to secure a new attorney, but his request was denied, further prolonging the legal process.
The tragic fate of Mary Lou Sharpe serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerable lives impacted by the reckless decisions of others. Matlacha, once a vibrant community space, now carries the somber weight of this incident, challenging residents to ponder the importance of responsible driving.
Previous Coverage of Deadly Matlacha Crash
