QUICK SUMMARY
William "Owen" Hines pleaded guilty to manslaughter for his role in the fatal "Gilbert Goons" attack on Preston Lord. He received a 17-year prison sentence, including 12 years for manslaughter and 5 years for aggravated assault in a drunken driving incident. Hines expressed deep remorse during his hearing, acknowledging the pain caused to Lord's family.
William "Owen" Hines pleaded guilty to manslaughter, resulting in a 17-year prison sentence for his role in the "Gilbert Goons" attack that killed Preston Lord. Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Scott McCoy sentenced Hines to 12 years for manslaughter and an additional five years for aggravated assault from a separate drunken driving incident. Hines, 19, was the first of seven defendants to change his plea, showing a willingness to accept responsibility. During the nearly three-hour hearing, he expressed deep remorse, stating he thinks about the tragic night regularly and addressed the court with a written statement. The court heard emotional testimonies from Lord's family, who highlighted the potential and kindness of their lost loved one. Judge McCoy noted the necessity of balancing Hines' history of addiction with the substantial pain he caused. Hines' parents defended him, calling him remorseful and compassionate, while the judge acknowledged the tragedy of the case. The hearing underscored the impact of violent behavior and the struggles with addiction faced by young individuals.