So much animosity towards that whole family. I'm scratching my head wondering where it is all coming from. Thanks to SC Joe for providing what information there is about the case. I am with those who think the kid in the coma could just as easily been the one behind the wheel. The fact that he was not wearing a seatbelt does not speak in his favour, although in Ontario it is the driver's responsibility to ensure all passengers are wearing seatbelts.
I haven't really been following the antics of this particular family, so perhaps that is why I don't share the ill will towards them that is so evident in this thread. IMO, Hulk Jr. is a minor. Who here would have done things differently if they were in his place, learning what he has learned from such amazing role models? He is not FULLY responsible. The operative word there is FULLY. I think he probably got an appropriate sentence. Maybe I would tack on some serious community service work...public speaking on the perils of that particular lifestyle.
As for the Hulkster himself. It sounds like he is a fool. I certainly agree with those who feel he shares some of the responsibility. The kid is 17. And the dad is out buying beer with him and providing him with these cars that belong on a race track with professional drivers? I'm no lawyer but isn't there a case for criminal negligence causing death? He should at least get the same as the son, perhaps more because he is the adult while the driver is the kid.
Oh, and for those who are screaming to throw away the key, I ask again, who would have done differently given the influences in his life? He needs to do jail time because it is a high profile case, because there needs to be some deterence and punishment for the guilty party. But being involved in that kind of incident carries its own punishment, and it sounds like the kid is having a very rough time.
