A Regina man was back in Weyburn Court today, as Justice Lana Krogan heard arguments for his sentencing.

Keith Dunford, 47, was found guilty of dangerous driving causing death on October 13th in relation to the death of 18-year-old flagperson Ashley Richards, who was killed on the job near Midale in 2012.

Over the two hours in court, both Crown and Defense lawyers presented their case for sentencing.

"The Crown made submissions requesting a three year jail term, followed by a driving prohibition of five years," said Crown Prosecutor Mitchell Miller. "With the facts of this particular case, the crown feels that that sentence is within range."

Miller added that an important principle to this case is deterrence, especially considering the risks faced by construction workers and flag-persons on Saskatchewan highways. In court he brought attention to the fact that Dunford was travelling 131 kilometres an hour in a construction zone and was not paying attention as he passed two vehicles in the construction zone and added that a serious consequence may be needed so this situation does not happen again.

"From the Crown's perspective, with respect to a dangerous driving causing death charge, this would fall on the more severe end of the range," added Miller.

The Defense is hoping that jail time will not be necessary, asking for a suspended sentence of three years, which would possibly include house arrest, community service and a driving prohibition.

"Justice Krogan has got a very difficult decision to make," said Defense attorney Aaron Fox. "You're dealing with an unusual circumstance; no previous record, no alcohol involved, the driving is not extreme and having to decide what's the appropriate sentence, bearing in mind there's also a loss of life."

Fox noted that jail time is not uncommon in dangerous driving situations, although they generally involve alcohol, repeat offenders and hit and runs.

Dunford also spoke at the hearing, calling this a tragic accident. He noted that he has a child the same age as Richards and appeared remorseful.

"He will have to live with this," said Fox. "It doesn't mater what the sentence is, it doesn't matter whether he goes to jail or is on probation or whatever. This is something he'll live with for the rest of his life. He knows that Miss Richards family and friends have suffered deeply because of this. She had a tough life, that's kind of clear, we see from the victim impact statements and it's just tragic. No matter what the sentencing outcome is, it's still tragic."

Justice Krogan has adjourned her decision until December 4.