Coban Porter, the younger brother of Denver Nuggets player Michael Porter Jr., received a six-year term for his involvement in a fatal DUI collision.
Michael spoke during Porter’s sentencing hearing on Friday.
As said by Michael Porter Jr,
“I wish it was me and not Coban. I wish I could trade places with you and take this off you but I know if there’s anybody that will make it right and make any good if possible come out of the situation it’s you,”
In connection with a vehicle homicide investigation in Denver’s University neighborhood, Porter, an athlete at the University of Denver, was taken into custody on January 22, 2023. After initially entering a not guilty plea in October 2023, he entered a guilty plea in February to the DUI charges.
When Coban was sentenced, he stated,
“I don’t know why her life was taken and not mine. It was my choice. Ten times out of 10 I would rather it be me than her,” “I hope whatever comes from this sentence, it brings you even just a little bit of peace and I’m sorry.”
Porter ran a red light at South University Boulevard while traveling westbound on Buchtel Boulevard, with an estimated speed of fifty miles per hour, according to the probable cause statement.
What Coban Porter’s Victims mother and lawyer said
On the spot, 42-year-old Katharina Rothman was pronounced deceased. Jason Blanch, a 47-year-old passenger, suffered severe injuries.
When Rothman was sentenced, his mother stated,
“The recognition that I no longer get to make or share any more memories with my daughter is harrowing and lonely as a parent you’re not supposed to bury your children,”
The case was dubbed a “cautionary tale of the disasters that often result when people drink and drive” by Denver District Attorney Beth McCann.
McCann stated,
“Katharina’s death was a terrible tragedy and my heart breaks for her family and friends. She was a loving and devoted mother, daughter, sister and friend who should still be with us today,” “We appreciate that Mr. Porter took accountability for his behavior from the beginning and expressed deep sorrow for his actions. However, given the severity of Mr. Porter’s crimes, the prison sentence he received is appropriate.”