The High Court in Kisumu sentenced Dennis Omondi Onyango alias Denno wa Njugu to 15 years in prison for the unlawful killing of a man following a violent confrontation in Chemelil, Muhoroni Sub-County.
Justice Omido Joe found Omondi guilty of manslaughter after he entered into a plea bargain agreement with the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) over the killing of Joseph Otieno Murende alias Otongolo.
Initially charged with murder contrary to Section 203 as read with Section 204 of the Penal Code, Omondi pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter under Section 202 as read with Section 205.
Prosecution Counsel Mercy Mutheu Muema presented the facts of the case, outlining how the fatal altercation occurred on the morning of 22nd of May 2023.
The deceased confronted the accused after finding him in the company of his wife, leading to a heated exchange that turned violent.
During the struggle, Omondi reportedly disarmed the deceased and fatally struck him with a panga, causing severe head injuries.
A post-mortem revealed the deceased suffered massive subdural hematoma and penetrating head injuries caused by a sharp object.
The court heard that Omondi fled the scene after the attack, and the weapon used was never recovered.
Prosecution emphasized the gravity of the offence, underscoring that the accused’s actions led to the irreversible loss of life and deserved a punishment that reflected society’s condemnation of unlawful killings.
The DPP urged the court to impose a custodial sentence to deter similar acts of violence and uphold the sanctity of human life.
Justice Omido noted that while the offence was committed in the heat of passion, the taking of a human life could not be excused.
He emphasized that every life is sacred and that justice must not only serve the offender but also the victim and the community at large.
After weighing the mitigating and aggravating factors, the court sentenced Omondi to 15 years imprisonment, effective June 14, 2024, the date of his initial remand.
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