Judge delays decision on former SAO investigator’s request to end probation

Reporter: Gail Levy Writer: Drew Hill
Published: Updated:
Charles lawson probation reduction
Credit: WINK News

A former State Attorney’s Office investigator who was sentenced to three years in prison followed by five years of probation wants that probation to end two years early.

Charles Lawson left the scene of a Christmas Day crash in 2013 after hitting and killing Michael Sasen, who was walking along McGregor Boulevard.

He was in court Monday morning to plead his case, but the judge delayed making a decision, saying he needed more time to review the case as he was not the sentencing judge in 2015. He did not provide a timeline for when his decision may be issued.

Sasen’s family said they’re appalled that Lawson wants reduced probation.

Just as Scott Sasen was opening a present from his father, he learned that he’d never see him again.

“After my dad was killed, I didn’t… I barely came out of my room for like four years,” Scott said.

Scott has tried for years to heal those wounds from losing his father in a hit-and-run.

“No Christmas will ever come that Scotty will be able to share Christmas light, and not, you know, not be hurting inside,” said Dean Sasen, Michael’s brother.

The Sasen family’s wounds are being reopened as Lawson seeks an early end to his punishment.

“I feel like from the beginning, it’s just been him trying to get less time on things, like, even the apology at the trial felt completely heartless and ungenuine,” Scott said.

Dean remains upset and angry over Lawson’s actions following the loss of Michael.

“What I feel is how dare you? How dare you? What kind of man are you to just go back to your house? Do the rest of your time and don’t go to court,” Dean said.

The family hopes that Lawson gets the justice they feel he deserves.

The Sasen family didn’t find out about the hearing until last Friday and, with such short notice, they weren’t able to come to Florida for it.

WINK News reached out to Charles Lawson for comment but we have not yet heard back.

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