Philip Slezewski appears before Manitowoc County court, via Zoom, April 5, 2024. (Manitowoc County court/Zoom)
MANITOWOC, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Philip Slezewski was sentenced Monday to six and a half years in prison for the Christmas Day drugged-driving crash which killed his wife and mother.
Slezewski, 39, was previously convicted of two counts of homicide by use of vehicle while using a controlled substance, and one count of injury by use of vehicle while using a controlled substance. Slezewski’s wife, Heather Arcaro-Slezewski, 38, and his mother, Clarine, 71, died in the crash.
In addition to the prison time, he was placed on extended supervision for eight and a half years by Judge Robert Dewane.
Multiple family members and friends from both sides of the family addressed the court in an emotional-filled courtroom.
Before the sentence was issued, Michael Arcaro lamented Slezewski’s decisions and impact on his sister’s life.
“It is because of these reasons I believe the only sentencing appropriate is the longest one possible. Because of his decision making, he my sister’s life from our family. And it is my hope the court takes as much as his life as possible. A 6×8 cell with three hots and a cot, which is far more than he ever gave my sister,” Arcaro said.
Kaylie Slezewski said her father loved his wife and step-children.
“He loved those girls. He loved Heather. I loved Heather, and I still love those girls. My dad was a good person, and that’s all I really have to say. Please take into consideration me and sister love our dad very much, and we do need our father,” Slezewski said.
Slezewski read a statement, apologizing for his actions.
“For anyone, I am truly sorry your lives were impacted by the actions and their lives were cut short. I am asking today that everyone here, I pray to God, for forgiveness,” he said. “I feel so horrible about what happened that day. I take full responsibility and accountability for my actions, as I was driving. What happened, again, was an accident,” he said.
The crash happened on I-43 at about 2:45 p.m. Slezewski originally faced charges for allegedly not having a valid driver’s license at the time. Slezewski told police in December he had done cocaine and marijuana less than 24 hours before the crash. After test results came back, additional charges were filed.
Motorists are allowed to have some alcohol in their system — under .08 BAC — and still drive legally. However, in Wisconsin, any detectable amount of illegal drugs can result in homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle and related charges.
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