What led to the increased jail term for the fatal 2020 crash?

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High Court Increased Jail Term for Fatal 2020 Crash Due to Offence Severity

The High Court increased the jail sentence for trailer driver Y Vethri Vel to eight years and imposed an RM80,000 fine, overturning a prior sentence of four years' jail and a RM20,000 fine. This decision stemmed from the court's assessment of the severity of the offence, which involved a drunk driving incident that resulted in the deaths of four family members in a 2020 crash.
Appeal Dismissal and Sentence Enhancement

The High Court dismissed Y Vethri Vel's appeal against his conviction for causing the deaths of four individuals in a road accident on February 13, 2020. Instead of upholding the initial sentence, the court enhanced the punishment, deeming the original term insufficient given the circumstances of the crash. The judge, Noor Ruwena Md Nurdin, cited the gravity of the offence as grounds for the increased sentence.
Original Conviction and Circumstances of the Crash

Initially, Y Vethri Vel was sentenced in December 2023 to four years' imprisonment and a RM20,000 fine under Section 41(1)(b) of the Road Transport Act 1987. This original sentence was for driving under the influence of alcohol, which led to the fatal collision. The accident claimed the lives of police officer Mohamad Faiz Bakhari, his wife Nik Iedayu Nik Hassan, her sister Nik Ifeka Nik Hassan, and their infant son, Mohamad Faqih Irsyad.
Rejection of Plea for Bond of Good Behaviour

The defence had sought a bond of good behaviour for the trailer driver. However, the court rejected this plea, explicitly referencing the severe nature of the offence. The court's decision to deny this request underscores the seriousness with which the judiciary viewed the drunk driving incident and its tragic consequences.
New Sentencing Details

Under the revised sentence, Y Vethri Vel is to serve eight years in jail and pay a fine of RM80,000, as mandated by Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. The jail term is scheduled to commence concurrently from June 13, 2025. Furthermore, the convicted driver will be disqualified from holding a driving licence for a period of three years following his release.

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What led to the increased jail term for the fatal 2020 crash?

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