The family of a man fatally struck by a hit-and-run driver in Paradise Hills addressed the man who killed their loved one at an emotional sentencing Thursday.
“You’re a heartless, cold blooded killer,” said Maria Padron, the sister of Jose Padron, 49, who was killed in the accident.
James Arthur Robbins was driving on the opposite side of Albemarle Street on January 19 when he crossed over the double yellow lines and struck Jose Padron.
At the time, Padron was grabbing an umbrella from his car for his wife.
The impact was so severe, his body was found 40-feet away from where he was hit.
“You didn’t even have the decency to turn yourself in,” said Maria Padron.
Robbins hid from authorities for a month before he was arrested. At the time, he was on probation for two prior robbery convictions.
Robbins previously pleaded guilty to felony hit and run.
“I find you a coward. You will always be a coward,” said Judith Tang, another sister.
In court, the two sisters, Padron’s wife and a sister-in-law gave emotional victim impact statements. They talked about the impact the incident has had on Padron’s 9-year-old son.
“Jo Jo misses his daddy so much, he cries himself to sleep every night. He says it’s been too long. He wants his daddy to come home, “ said Maria Padron.
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David McNees, the prosecutor in the case, expressed frustration over the 10-year sentence, but said it was the maximum allowed by law.
At Robbin’s sentencing hearing, McNees said there was evidence that Robbins used bleach to wipe away evidence on his girlfriend’s car.
The prosecutor also said text messages suggested cocaine use. But it was circumstancial evidence that wasn’t used in the case.
McNees said had this been a third strike case, Robbins would have faced a minimum of 37-years in prison.
