GREELEY, Colo. – A Weld County judge has sentenced Norberto Garcia-Gonzales to 24 years in prison for his involvement in the death of Weld County Sheriff’s Deputy Alexis Hein-Nutz. Garcia-Gonzales was found guilty of striking Hein-Nutz with his vehicle, causing her death, and then fleeing the scene. The incident occurred in September of 2022, north of Greeley.
Hein-Nutz, who was on her way to work at the sheriff’s office, tragically lost her life in the accident. Garcia-Gonzales, who was suspected of drunk driving at the time of the incident, not only failed to render aid to Hein-Nutz but also fled the scene. He was apprehended several days later.
During the sentencing, Hein-Nutz’s loved ones and colleagues expressed the devastating impact of the loss, describing her as a beloved and energetic individual who was respected by both her peers and the inmates she supervised. Despite the defense’s argument that the incident was an accident, Garcia-Gonzales was given the maximum sentence of 24 years in prison, with credit for time already served.
Hein-Nutz’s family expressed gratitude for the sentencing but felt that it did not fully address the immense damage caused by Garcia-Gonzales’ actions. Weld County Sheriff Steve Reams expressed his hope that Garcia-Gonzales would be deported upon completing his sentence.