A former Bradley University student faces from six to 28 years in prison after pleading guilty to fatally striking two people with her vehicle outside an East Peoria bar last spring.
Stephanie Melgoza entered a blind plea of guilty Thursday in Tazewell County Circuit Court. Unlike a regular plea deal, a blind plea leaves the length of the sentence up to the judge.
Melgoza's attorney, Kevin Sullivan, said he hopes the judge sets the sentence at the lower end of the scale.
"She had no intent. She had no malice in her heart, is exceptionally remorseful," Sullivan said. "And we're just hoping for the best when the court looks at all the evidence."
Andrea Rosewicz, 43, and 55-year-old Paul Prowant died after they were struck by Melgoza's vehicle outside the Throttle Bar and Grill on North Main Street in East Peoria last April.
Police said Melgoza admitted to drinking before driving, and showed signs of impairment during a field sobriety test. Authorities also said Melgoza admitted to speeding.
As part of the blind plea, prosecutors will drop misdemeanor charges associated with the case.
Melgoza is due back in court for sentencing on April 27.
