Williamsport, PA Police Officer Charged With Vehicular Manslaughter
January 12, 2014
Our Boston injury law office is a team of nationally known and respected injury lawyer specialists with years of experience and an excellent reputation for achieving terrific results for our clients and recovering millions of dollars in damages. Injured in a car accident? Our Boston car accident lawyer specialists will work with great skill and expertise to ensure that you receive the money damages that you rightly deserve.
Do you remember the day you got your license? Do you recall the elation and freeing feeling of being able to get in your car and go where you wanted? These feelings are felt by many who pass the required license test in their state of residency. On that day, a person understands and appreciates, perhaps more than at any other time, the real privilege of driving on American roads. Certainly, there are millions of Americans who are afforded such a privilege because they drive responsibly. But as time wears on, and the novelty of driving wears off, many drivers become complacent. Regardless of position, wealth, or societal class, anyone can be guilty of negligent driving—even the police.
On January 12, 2014, Officer Jonathan DePrenda was driving near the Third and Railway Street intersection in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. DePrenda was rushing to the aid of another officer who was involved in a high-speed pursuit. The police officer was traveling between 98 and 101 miles per hour with his lights and sirens on. The posted speed limit in the area was 35 miles per hour.
As Officer DePrenda entered into the intersection, his cruiser struck a vehicle being driven by 42-year old Williamsport resident, James Robinson. The impact pushed Robinson’s car into a utility pole and a vacant house, where it burst into flames. Mr. Robinson was killed as a result of the crash. His estate brought a lawsuit against the City of Williamsport and Officer DePrenda and is currently negotiating a settlement.
Criminal charges also have been brought against Officer Deprenda for vehicular homicide and involuntary manslaughter. In addition, he has been suspended with pay from the Williamsport Police Department. According to Police Chief Michael Orwig, he is continuing to receive pay because the internal investigation is not yet complete.
In traumatic car accidents such as this one, the devastation wrought can be both physical and emotional in nature. Injuries can be so severe that they prevent people from returning to their previous lifestyles. When the ability to work is affected, courts may also consider the long-term financial implications for car accident victims, and award money damages accordingly.
If you or your loved one has been injured or killed in a Massachusetts car accident, seek out our Boston car accident attorney experts. With years of experience and an impeccable track record for settling personal injury cases, we will make sure that you are awarded just compensation for the pain and anguish you have experienced. Your needs are our top priority!
