The woman who caused a crash on Monarch Pass that killed two motorcyclists on July 2 of 2019, was sentenced yesterday to 8 years in prison. 

70-year-old Diane Patten was driving eastbound on Hwy 50 when she crossed the center line and struck a motorcycle carrying Travis Allan and Linda York, both from Indiana.  Travis was pronounced dead at the scene.  Linda died a short time later at Penrose Hospital in Colorado Springs.

Patten had a blood alcohol level of .131 when tested after the crash.  7 open and empty beer cans along with two marijuana pipes were found in her car. 

Patten was charged with Vehicular Homicide.  

The Prosecution asked for the maximum of 12 years. 

Judge Patrick Murphy yesterday sentenced Patten to 8 years in the Department of Corrections and 2 years probation, but due to COVID-19, the sentence was not imposed yesterday but will be delayed for 3 weeks when suitable accommodations can be made.

Patten will appear in court next on July 21, 2020.     

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Dan R

Danny “Dan R” Ridenour has been in radio and television broadcasting for over 40 years, starting as a senior in high school in Rogers, Arkansas. His radio career has had stops in Nashville, Memphis, Oklahoma, and eventually, Colorado. Dan enjoys being involved in the community, having been a member of the Upper Arkansas Service Club and is currently on the board of directors for the Salida Community Center and is a member of the Chaffee County Fair Committee. He and his wife Carrie spend their days doing everything the mountains have to offer: hiking, camping, fishing and skiing. They've raised 3 children and have 2 grandchildren.

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