‘Trenton’s Law’ imposes harsher sentences for repeat deadly DUI offenses

A new Florida law, known as "Trenton’s Law", officially goes into effect on October 1, aiming to enforce stricter penalties for repeat offenders in deadly DUI crashes. The law is named after Trenton Stewart, a promising football player from St. Johns County who tragically lost his life in a wrong-way DUI crash in 2023.

A Family’s Tragedy Sparks Legislative Change

Trenton Stewart, a Creekside High School graduate and Stetson University football player, was killed on May 9, 2023, when a driver traveling at 111 miles per hour struck him head-on. The driver, Ariel Monteagudo, was under the influence of drugs at the time of the crash. This devastating incident occurred shortly after Trenton had returned home following a night of work.

Trenton’s parents, Mandi and Rob Stewart, have been grappling with the immeasurable loss of their son. "He wanted to be here. He had so many goals. He loved life. He was happy all the time", said Mandi Stewart. "It’s really hard to process because I constantly say, ‘you should be here,’ because he really should be here. There’s no reason for him not being here."

Rob Stewart, himself a lifelong football fan, shared how deeply the loss has affected him: "I’ve loved football since I could walk, played almost every day for 17 and a half years, but I’ve lost that part of me."

Harsher Penalties for Repeat Offenders

Before the introduction of "Trenton’s Law", those convicted of multiple deadly DUI offenses in Florida could face a maximum sentence of 15 years. The new legislation doubles that potential sentence to 30 years, targeting repeat offenders who cause fatal crashes.

Monteagudo, the driver responsible for Trenton’s death, is a repeat offender. He had previously served 10 years in prison for another deadly DUI crash in Broward County. In January, he was sentenced to 12 years in prison for the crash that claimed Trenton’s life.

Mandi Stewart reflected on the law’s impact, saying, "I still don’t feel like it’s as strong as we should make it, but it’s at least a step in the right direction."

A Broader Concern

The issue of repeat DUI offenders remains a significant concern in Florida. Local court records reveal that there are currently 91 open cases related to DUI crashes in the Duval, St. Johns, and Clay counties, with 16 of those cases involving repeat offenders.

The Stewarts have vowed to continue advocating for stronger measures to prevent such tragedies and to ensure that those responsible face appropriate consequences. As part of their efforts, they have also established The Trenton Stewart Foundation, which raises scholarship funds for student-athletes.

Moving Forward

"Trenton’s Law" represents a step toward addressing the dangers posed by repeat DUI offenders, but for the Stewarts, it is also a way to honor their son’s memory and the life he was unable to live. A roadside memorial on Old St. Augustine Road stands as a somber reminder of the vibrant young man who was lost too soon. Trenton’s parents hope their advocacy will save lives and spare other families from similar heartbreak.

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