Drunken Driver Sentenced For Crash That Killed Beachwood Teacher

BEACHWOOD, OH — Sanford Doss has been sentenced to prison for causing the death of Beachwood teacher Arthur Gugick and Shaker Heights resident Barbara Becker. Doss, 31, will spend between 16 and 19.5 years in prison.

“This was a tragic case that sent shockwaves throughout the Beachwood community and beyond. Although this case is now closed, the horrific effects will last forever,” said Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael O’Malley. “Our thoughts remain with the victims’ families, friends, and community as they continue to recover.”

On March 30, Gugick and Becker got an Uber home after visiting the Cleveland International Film Festival. The driver picked them up and was driving near South Woodland Road and Warrensville Center when Doss ran a red light and crashed into the car.

Shaker Heights police and EMS responded. They declared Becker dead on the scene. Gugick and the Uber driver were taken to a hospital. Gugick died shortly after arriving for treatment. The Uber driver suffered broken bones in his arm but survived.

Doss was taken into custody at the site of the crash.

Investigators determined that Doss' blood alcohol concentration was three times over the legal limit at the time of the crash, prosecutors said. Doss was driving 86 mph five seconds before hitting the Uber. The speed limit was 35 mph.

Three bottles of liquor were found inside Doss' car, prosecutors noted.

Doss pleaded no contest to four counts of aggravated vehicular homicide, two counts of aggravated vehicular assault and two counts of driving under the influence. The court found him guilty on all counts.

The Ohio Department of Corrections will review the case after Doss has served 16 years in prison. The department will then determine whether he should be released. The most time Doss can serve in prison is 19.5 years.