An illegal immigrant from Guatemala was sentenced to 3½ years in prison yesterday for killing a Chesterfield County woman in a drunken-driving crash that left the victim pinned against the side of a convenience store. Circuit Judge Michael C. Allen sentenced Alberto Candino Bamaca, 39, to a total of 21 years but suspended 17½ years of that term on convictions of involuntary manslaughter, felony hit-and-run driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol.

Edgar Cuevas-Rosales’ story is not unlike the dozens of other illegal immigrants being held on criminal charges in local jails. The 21-year-old native of Mexico said he arrived here two years ago to find work and a better life. He easily found a job in construction and, with no family members here to lean on, stayed with friends in South Richmond.