Outrage Erupts After Judge Sentences Driver to Probation in High-Speed Crash That Killed 17-Year-Old

LAS VEGAS, NV — Tensions boiled over inside the Regional Justice Center on Wednesday morning after a Clark County District Court judge sentenced a 21-year-old driver to probation following his conviction in a high-speed collision that killed a local teenager.

The decision has sparked intense public backlash from the victim’s family and community members calling for stricter penalties for violent traffic offenses.

The Fatal Collision at Tree Line Drive

The case stems from a March 2024 collision at the intersection of Tree Line Drive and Back Woods Road.

According to trial transcripts and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department reports, Jesus Barraza—who was 18 at the time of his arrest—was traveling southbound at a high rate of speed in a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado when he struck 17-year-old Devin Heath as the teenager crossed the roadway. Heath was rushed to Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center with catastrophic injuries, where he was pronounced deceased.

Earlier this year, a jury found Barraza guilty of felony reckless driving resulting in death.

+--------------------------------------------------------+
|          DISTRICT COURT SENTENCING DOSSIER              |
+--------------------------------------------------------+
|  - Defendant: Jesus Barraza, 21 (18 at time of crash)   |
|  - Victim: Devin Heath, 17 (Deceased)                  |
|  - Conviction Charge: Reckless Driving Resulting in Death|
|  - Judicial Ruling: Probation Granted (Judge Schwartz) |
+--------------------------------------------------------+

Furious Reaction to Probation Ruling

During the sentencing hearing before District Judge Jennifer Schwartz, state prosecutors argued aggressively for a prison sentence, emphasizing the fatal consequences of excessive speed in residential corridors.

However, Judge Schwartz ultimately granted Barraza probation, citing his lack of prior criminal history and age at the time of the offense.

The ruling prompted an immediate, emotional reaction in the courtroom. Devin Heath’s father addressed the court, publicly condemning the sentence as a complete failure of justice and asserting that the court sent a dangerous message to drivers who endanger public safety on local roads. Barraza will be required to comply with strict probation conditions, including community service and driving restrictions, under threat of serving his suspended prison term if he violates the terms.

Source: Eighth Judicial District Court Sentencing Transcripts, Clark County District Attorney Prosecution Briefs, LVMPD Fatal Collision Logs.