Green Country Man Gets 45-Year Sentence For Crash That Killed Woman

A Green Country man will go to prison for 45 years for a DUI crash that killed a woman on her way to church.

On the one hand in this case, you have Etoyce Johnson, a devoted teacher who wanted to change the world one student at a time and a woman of great faith. On the other, a 12-time convicted felon with his third DUI, driving a stolen truck with meth in it, running from police.

10/11/2016 Related Story: OHP Releases Dashcam Of Chase That Killed Woman Going To Church

Blake Ferguson choked up as he told the Johnson family he was sorry for causing her death and for letting drugs come back and take control of his life.

He said he takes full responsibility for his actions and never intended to harm anyone and hoped someday they would forgive him.

Johnson's best friend of 25 years told Ferguson they don't hate him or want vengeance, but they did want justice as their pain over her death will last forever.

"She was a devoted Christian, had a great sense of humor and always reminded you to be nice to people," said Vickie Sheets, Johnson's best friend.

Prosecutors say Ferguson had been given many chances to get his life together.

They told the judge the time for mercy was over and asked for a life sentence.

His attorney argued Ferguson's crimes were fueled by drug addiction and asked for the minimum of 20 years.

The judge sentenced Ferguson to 45 years for killing Johnson and nine more for other crimes.

His family hugged and cried afterward, then approached Johnson's family to express their sorrow for their loss.

Johnson's son told Ferguson during the hearing that even knowing what she did, his mother would be the the first to tell him God forgives him.

They said her legacy of giving to the community will live on through her children and grandchildren.