The sentencing of Lakeisha Holloway, the woman behind the 2015 Las Vegas Strip crash that resulted in the death of one and injuries to many, has been postponed following her request for a new attorney. Holloway, also known by the name Paris Paradise Morton, was scheduled for sentencing after admitting to second-degree murder and battery with a deadly weapon, as per News3LV. However, her recent appearance in court yesterday was instead marked by an attorney change and further delay.
During the proceedings, Holloway expressed her worries regarding the effectiveness of another lawyer and petitioned for the chance to assess potential representation before appointment. Judge Tierra Jones explained that it wouldn't be possible, yet Holloway could consult with any newly appointed counsel about her plea. Monti Levy, her most recent attorney, has been permitted to withdraw, with the judge indicating that she would reach out to the Office of Appointed Counsel to find a replacement. The decision has stalled the case further, with the next hearing scheduled for October 9, according to FOX5 Vegas.
The tragic incident occurred days before Christmas in 2015 when authorities say Holloway deliberately drove onto a crowded sidewalk on the Las Vegas Boulevard, leading to the death of 32-year-old Arizona mother Jessica Valenzuela and injuries to at least 35 others. The event prompted Clark County to install protective bollards along the Strip's sidewalks to prevent similar occurrences. After a series of competency hearings and changes in legal representation, Holloway reached a plea agreement in August, where she agreed to 18 years to life in prison.
