THIS is the astonishing moment a woman embraces her husband’s hit-and-run killer in court and tells him he is forgiven.
Joseph Tillman, 24, was sentenced to 20 years behind bars after killing Charles Johnson in a hit-and-run.
Johnson was riding his bike on Towne Lake Parkway, Georgia at around 3:30pm on March 3 last year when he was fatally struck by a car.
Charles – better known as Chuck – was rushed to hospital where he was treated for life-threatening injuries but tragically died a week later.
Tillman later pleaded guilty to charges including homicide by vehicle, drinking under the influence, and reckless driving.
Incredible footage taken in court shows the moment the 24-year-old breaks down in tears as the victim’s wife, Regina Johnson, turns to embrace him.
The two share a long hug, prompting tears among members of the courtroom, as Regina tells the young lad she forgives him.
Tillman then whispered to Regina: “I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry,” WSB-TV 2 reports.
Watching in disbelief, Cherokee County Superior Court Judge Tony Baker remarked: “I don’t think I’ve ever seen the wife of a victim embrace a defendant after they have killed someone.”
In an interview after the trial, Regina revealed she reached for her husband’s killer because “God told her he needed a mom hug”.
She said: “Joey needs healing of things in his past, as we all do. And that is our heart and prayer.”
The 24-year-old had been drinking at a sports bar and had purchased whippets of Galaxy Gas – a hazardous nitrous oxide substance – before driving and losing consciousness.
After hitting Johnson, Tillman evaded the scene and another driver, who was also present at the time, was initially charged with the hit-and-run.
Johnson has been sentenced to twenty years in prison, during which he will have to complete a two-year inpatient rehab program that might result in suspended prison time.
In court, Tillman expressed: ‘I’ve committed to the long journey of making amends. I’ve entered rehab, embraced sobriety, and started the hard, humbling work of healing. I know I do not deserve peace when I’ve inflicted so much pain.’
His defense attorney, Paul Ghanouni, stated: ‘He’s altering his lifestyle and appears to be on a path to continue moving forward with his life positively.’
Tributes have since poured in for Chuck who had a “joy for life” and could always be seen with a wide smile on his face.
One grieving resident said: “He always had a smile, a joy for life, and always a big heart.
“I spent many hours with him and his family, always feeling welcome. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.”
Another person added: “So sorry for Chuck to have been a part of such a tragic accident. Our sympathies to the family and may Chuck rest in peace.”
A third, who remembered Chuck for his generosity, said: “Chuck was a friend whose love of life, Jesus, family, theological discussions with me in various places in the world, and and gentle honesty has immeasurably enriched my life.”
The 78-year-old was a valued member of his community – serving in various ministries and helping in the local women’s shelter.
He was married to Regina for 50 years and leaves behind his two adored sons and daughter, and five cherished granddaughters.
