Towle family could do with a dose of shut the fuck up
Posted by clubwah on March 11, 2008
I can’t imagine what has gone through the mind of Thomas Towle, since his car missed a bend near Mildura last year resulting in the deaths of six teenagers walking on the roadside. While he doesn’t feel the grief of the families of the young dead, I’m sure the guilt is there.
His remorse must have been pretty strong for a jury to find him not guilty of culpable driving and guilty of the lesser charge of dangerous driving causing death. The difference between the two are maximum sentences of 20 and five years respectively.
The jury weren’t privy to was Towle’s appalling driving record which included convictions for offences including drink driving, driving while disqualified, driving an unregistered vehicle, fraudulently using a number plate and identification and driving a vehicle with ineffective headlights.
I don’t question the jury’s decision. They were in court everyday I wasn’t. And while I expect Towle’s family to be relieved by the decision, it’s rather inappropriate for them to make comments which imply he is the victim in all this.
While families of the dead kids were understandably questioning whether or not justice had prevailed, Towle’s father, Graham, was out there saying he hoped his the judge will consider time served and release his son upon sentencing.
He also launched into the lack of respect for the law the “boozing” victims had and blamed their ”single parents”.
The Towle familie’s “PR campaign” was further boosted by the insensitive remarks of Towle’s mother who said she was “glad it’s all over”.
I hope in the clear light of day she realises what an appalling choice of words this was considering that, for the victim’s families, this will never go away – though let’s hope the Towles do.
Dave from Albury said
I am actually pretty surprised that the family would want him out in public rather than secured inside a gaol. Country people have long memories and firearms, not a good combination after an incident like this, especially where there is even a whiff of justice not being done.
Terry Wright said
I knew some of the parents who lost their kids that day.
One was a really good friend from a few years back and I had lost contact when he moved to Mildura. He lived for that kid and it was devastating for him. I remember he had changed his whole life to take custody and eventually moved to the country for his kid’s welfare.
Also I grew up with another of the parents who lost their child as well. Although I hadn’t seen him for a long time I had about 10 years with this guy growing up when we were kids. Unfortunately I had only caught up with him from time to time.
Now 2 friends have lost kids in the same event and my sympathy for Towles is zilch. What a fucked up world.
Dave from Albury said
http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/five-years-for-towle/2008/03/19/1205602454057.html
Towle’s lawyers arguing that he shouldn’t be sentenced for more than one offence. If that flys I’ll buy a membership to the Bolta fan club as he tears the judge a new one.
clubwah said
It’s a shocking case – appalling timing for all concerned.
I’d love to know why the jury went for the lesser charge. Whether or not they knew his prior convictions it was evident he was driving like an idot with a child on his lap. It’s amazing that child is till alive.
I think whith his prior convictions the judge will give the maximum five years regardless. Let’s hope for the families’ sake he is seen to be held responsible for the lot.