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“Most Arrogant” Defendant Sentenced In Deadly DUI Wreck

LEWISBURG — When a man from Union County was sentenced Thursday morning for a deadly crash, the judge called him the “most arrogant” defendant...

LEWISBURG -- When a man from Union County was sentenced Thursday morning for a deadly crash, the judge called him the "most arrogant" defendant she ever saw in a courtroom.

After that, she sentenced him to almost the maximum amount of time allowed by law.

Christopher Wirth, 22, was sentenced to serve nine to 25 years in state prison.  She sentenced him to the high end of the sentencing guideline after calling him arrogant.

Wirth addressed the court for almost 30 minutes, saying his trial was unfair.

Wirth of Hartleton walked into a courtroom in Union County ready to hear his sentence for causing the crash that killed his girlfriend.

In February, a jury convicted him in less than an hour of homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence.

State police say he was driving drunk in January of 2012 and going 91 miles per hour when he crashed near Mifflinburg.  Allison Vonneida, 22, died at the scene.

Wirth does not believe he was responsible for the crash.

"Hoping to get a new trial," said Wirth. "They were instructed improperly, the jury."

He called the jury prejudiced and unfair.  Wirth said he was only partially responsible for the crash.

"I thought he was very arrogant, just like the judge said.  I just can't believe he showed no remorse.  None.  He didn't even shed one tear.  How is that right?" asked the victim's sister Wendy Vonneida.

Vonneida's family says they are pleased with Wirth's sentence of nine to 25 years in state prison.

"I'm very, very happy. I mean, I'm just so glad it's done and over with.  I'm just ready to have this done, heal and try to move on," Vonneida added.

"In all of my years on the bench, I have never seen a defendant be so arrogant.  You took no responsibility.  You are a danger to your community," said Judge Louise Knight.

Wirth apologized to his 3-year-old daughter, who he shared with Allison Vonneida.  The child is staying with family members.

Wirth plans to appeal his conviction.

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