Sentencing gets underway in 2012 hit-and-run death

A sentencing hearing got underway Monday in connection with the death of 22-year-old Joshua Switzer in northeast London.

Switzer was struck by a pickup near the intersection of Fanshawe Park Road East and Highbury Avenue on May 19, 2012. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the pickup, 34-year-old Darrin Norton of St. Thomas, fled the scene, but was arrested by London police a few days later. His vehicle, a 1994 Ford Ranger pickup, had severe front end damage.

Norton was charged with leaving the scene of a collision causing death and has pleaded guilty.

On the stand Monday, members of Switzer's family delivered emotional victim impact statements.

His mother, Pam Switzer, says, "Joshua was a fine young man, a good friend, a wonderful son, a terrific brother and grandson. And so having had that opportunity to describe him to people was something we had wanted to do for some time."

But Norton's lawyer told the court his client is a man of good character who panicked and made the wrong decision after he struck Switzer.

The Crown is asking for a two- to three-year jail sentence and a three-year driving ban while the defence is seeking a fine, probation and community service.

The date for a sentencing decision will be set on May 13th.