Wow! Justice for a Change

[retiredguy123]

A 91 year old woman Villager was recently sentenced to 5 years in prison for a hit and run accident that seriously injured two bicyclists in 2020 near Morse Blvd in The Villages. After hitting the bicyclists, she got out of her car, saw the people she hit, and then drove home. She was later arrested when she tried to get her car repaired in Gainesville. The judge denied her request to delay serving her term and she was immediately taken into custody. Although it took more than 2 years to get justice, I wish more crimes were handled that way.

[manaboutown]

What I found telling was that in all the news reports I have read about her conduct she was always reported as driving a Mercedes. It felt to me like an attempt to foster class hatred upon her although I personally found her conduct beyond reprehensible no matter what she was driving. She deserves to do the time as she definitely committed the crime. The OP wrote she was driving a car for which I am most appreciative.

[ThirdOfFive]

What I found telling was that in all the news reports I have read about her conduct she was always reported as driving a Mercedes. It felt to me like an attempt to foster class hatred upon her although I personally found her conduct beyond reprehensible no matter what she was driving. She deserves to do the time as she definitely committed the crime. The OP wrote she was driving a car for which I am most appreciative.
I agree about that class hatred observation. The story was covered extensively in V i l l a g e s - N e w s, and that publication spares no effort to stir up as much controversy and negativity as it possibly can. I believe every story I saw about this case in V-N mentioned the Mercedes. Sign of the times, I guess.

Justice was done. Though no prison sentence can change what happened to that couple on the bicycles, or the impact that this accident will most probably have on the rest of their lives.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

What I found telling was that in all the news reports I have read about her conduct she was always reported as driving a Mercedes. It felt to me like an attempt to foster class hatred upon her although I personally found her conduct beyond reprehensible no matter what she was driving. She deserves to do the time as she definitely committed the crime. The OP wrote she was driving a car for which I am most appreciative.I agree the sentence is fair , although I don’t know how much time they will keep her locked up at that age , but the Mercedes’ part always made me uncomfortable

[Taltarzac725]

Locked up at 91?

I wonder where they will house her?

[mtdjed]

Locked up at 91?

I wonder where they will house her?

I don't know any of the facts. Was she drinking, on drugs? Multiple offenses? Sound state of mind? Just seems like a possible huge burden on the state.

Granny doesn't need to pay for housing, car expense, property tax , income tax, insurance, food, medical expenses, utilities anymore and still get her pension, social security and IRA income. Do you think you could keep her a bit longer so our inheritance can build up a little more?

[Aces4]

A 91 year old woman Villager was recently sentenced to 5 years in prison for a hit and run accident that seriously injured two bicyclists in 2020 near Morse Blvd in The Villages. After hitting the bicyclists, she got out of her car, saw the people she hit, and then drove home. She was later arrested when she tried to get her car repaired in Gainesville. The judge denied her request to delay serving her term and she was immediately taken into custody. Although it took more than 2 years to get justice, I wish more crimes were handled that way.

Meh. I would have been really impressed if all the elderly after age 85 have to surrender their drivers license.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

The fact that she was driving a Mercedes isn't even all that impressive. You can buy your own used Mercedes for under $30,000. There's one on the certified pre-owned mercedes website, a 2017 model for $22,900.

It'd be impressive (from a "oh look, elitist-talk" perspective) if they said that the woman's chauffeur hit two bicyclists.

[Taltarzac725]

Not a lot of elitists in the Villages. They would probably go to other places in Florida.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Not a lot of elitists in the Villages. They would probably go to other places in Florida.

I meant the "anti-elitists." People who get a kick out of criticizing wealthy people JUST because they're wealthy.

[Gpsma]

A travesty of justice.

Maybe if these bicyclists and their clubs(more like gangs) learned to ride responsibly these type accidents would never occur.

[PugMom]

A travesty of justice.

Maybe if these bicyclists and their clubs(more like gangs) learned to ride responsibly these type accidents would never occur.

while i respect your reply, we ALL need to be much more careful about travel here. cyclists, golf carts, etc. flowing all @ once requires the utmost attention given to how we operate a vehicle of any kind. people have to anticipate that sort of thing & act accordingly. this woman was not just @ fault for the accident, she drove away after observing the crumpled bodies in the road! that & the fact she sent the car out of town asap scream guilt & understanding of her actions. THIS is where the true issue lies.

[PugMom]

Locked up at 91?

I wonder where they will house her?

Village of Coleman, :loco:!

[Taltarzac725]

Village of Coleman, :loco:!

She will probably go to a minimum security State of Florida prison. I do not seeing her bring a big escape risk. Unless she is like the Villages' super senior athlete Tiny.

[Bjeanj]

I hate to bring this up, but how will she manage to maintain her property while she’s gone? I didn’t get the impression that she lives with anyone who could do that. Next thing you know, we’ll see her property on the list of properties not being maintained.

[B-flat]

I hate to bring this up, but how will she manage to maintain her property while she’s gone? I didn’t get the impression that she lives with anyone who could do that. Next thing you know, we’ll see her property on the list of properties not being maintained.

From what I read she has family in California and her attorney if I remember correctly asked her prison time be spent in California near her family while she resides in an assisted living community not prison. The request was denied. I would say if it were my mother I would step in and either take care of the property or sell it. I also wonder how she'll survive 5 years in prison.

[wisbad1]

I agree the sentence is fair , although I don’t know how much time they will keep her locked up at that age , but the Mercedes’ part always made me uncomfortable
Made me uncomfortable too, I drive an older Mercedes and I don’t feel like I’m any better than everyone else. Plus mine is almost 18 years old.

[JGibson]

5 years for a 91-year-old with no criminal history is extreme. It's not like she intended to hurt the bikers. Yes, she screwed up leaving the scene but c’mon 5 years.

Hopefully, she appeals the sentence and the VN is why most people hate the media. For all we know it was some old 1998 Mercedes with 200,000 miles on it.

[mtdjed]

I don't know any of the facts. Was she drinking, on drugs? Multiple offenses? Sound state of mind? Just seems like a possible huge burden on the state.

Granny doesn't need to pay for housing, car expense, property tax , income tax, insurance, food, medical expenses, utilities anymore and still get her pension, social security and IRA income. Do you think you could keep her a bit longer so our inheritance can build up a little more?

The poster above was obviously misguided in his statement. Oh, that was me.
I took the time go back and read about the incident and the subsequent facts.

Seems like they already reduced the time and that "the inheritance " is also subject to loss due to the incident.

An obvious, crime of hit and run, should be punished regardless of age.

[BobnBev]

Meh. I would have been really impressed if all the elderly after age 85 have to surrender their drivers license.

You really think that would stop them from driving?:oops:

[Cobullymom]

She will probably go to a minimum security State of Florida prison. I do not seeing her bring a big escape risk. Unless she is like the Villages' super senior athlete Tiny.
Coleman has minimum and maximum security

[Ele201]

A 91 year old woman Villager was recently sentenced to 5 years in prison for a hit and run accident that seriously injured two bicyclists in 2020 near Morse Blvd in The Villages. After hitting the bicyclists, she got out of her car, saw the people she hit, and then drove home. She was later arrested when she tried to get her car repaired in Gainesville. The judge denied her request to delay serving her term and she was immediately taken into custody. Although it took more than 2 years to get justice, I wish more crimes were handled that way.
My first thought is that once a person reaches 90, he or she shouldn’t be driving a car. There may be some exceptions, but this woman isn’t one of them. She was trying to get away from a truck and slammed into two bicyclists. Was that poor vision, bad judgement or reflexes, who knows. She says she had hip pain. The real issue is that she saw what happened, got out of her car, then got back in and sped off. No excuse for that.

[HJBeck]

With all the money she isn’t spending while in jail. Or she can sell her Mercedes’ and hire someone. She certainly won’t be needing that anymore.

[jimbomaybe]

A travesty of justice.

Maybe if these bicyclists and their clubs(more like gangs) learned to ride responsibly these type accidents would never occur.
Just who was a fault and to what extent will certainly be looked into regarding the certain civil proceedings, accident reconstruction takes all manner of things into consideration, but accidents are accidents, but can ,depending on actions and circumstances become criminal, leaving the scene of an accident is most certainly criminal.

[Rwirish]

Justice well deserved.

[roscoguy]

A travesty of justice.

Maybe if these bicyclists and their clubs(more like gangs) learned to ride responsibly these type accidents would never occur.

What a totally ridiculous and biased assumption.

[terryf484]

A travesty of justice.

Maybe if these bicyclists and their clubs(more like gangs) learned to ride responsibly these type accidents would never occur.

Seems you are leaving out all the cars that like to travel at 50+ mph on all of the posted 35 mph roads in the Villages. Guess they never contribute to accidents!!

[OhioBuckeye]

Well I’m not here to argue if the court was right or wrong about giving her 5 yrs. in prison, but seriously a 91 yr. old woman that already has both feet in her grave already. I know they had to do something to her for hitting someone on a bike. But why not take her license away from her for 20 yrs, well I’m sure she’ll be pushing up daisies by then or tell her family to put her in a nursing home, I’m sure that would be prison enough. I agree she had no business getting behind the wheel of a car at 91yrs. old!

[RICH1]

Put her on a Chain Gang picking up Dog Poop …..

[coconutmama]

A 91 year old woman Villager was recently sentenced to 5 years in prison for a hit and run accident that seriously injured two bicyclists in 2020 near Morse Blvd in The Villages. After hitting the bicyclists, she got out of her car, saw the people she hit, and then drove home. She was later arrested when she tried to get her car repaired in Gainesville. The judge denied her request to delay serving her term and she was immediately taken into custody. Although it took more than 2 years to get justice, I wish more crimes were handled that way.

Amen. The bicyclists were severely injured. Anyone can have an accident but you have to stop & call police. An ambulance was needed in this case as well.

I don’t believe in age discrimination. The bicyclists were wearing helmets & reflectors

[jimschlaefer]

A 91 year old woman Villager was recently sentenced to 5 years in prison for a hit and run accident that seriously injured two bicyclists in 2020 near Morse Blvd in The Villages. After hitting the bicyclists, she got out of her car, saw the people she hit, and then drove home. She was later arrested when she tried to get her car repaired in Gainesville. The judge denied her request to delay serving her term and she was immediately taken into custody. Although it took more than 2 years to get justice, I wish more crimes were handled that way.

I wonder if she will be required to withdraw her annual RMD during incarceration. Since she will be receiving state funded room and board, she could be living pretty 'high on the hog' for the next 5 years counting the RMD, Social Security and any pension she might be entitled to.

[toeser]

Meh. I would have been really impressed if all the elderly after age 85 have to surrender their drivers license.

Not fair, but there should be testing. We have a neighbor in his 90's who is sharp as a tack and in good health. We should not create buckets that don't differentiate. There are people in their 70's who should not be driving.

[spinner1001]

Locked up at 91?

I wonder where they will house her?

You can search online by person’s name for the facility in the State of Florida inmate records. It’s public.

[NoMo50]

Coleman has minimum and maximum security

Coleman is a Federal prison. She will be serving her time in a State facility.

[Two Bills]

Not fair, but there should be testing. We have a neighbor in his 90's who is sharp as a tack and in good health. We should not create buckets that don't differentiate. There are people in their 70's who should not be driving.

I could name four people in their 40's and 50's I would never get in a car with, yet am most comfortable being driven by a neighbor who is 86.
Horse for courses.
Wonder what those advocating taking away driving licenses for over 80+ drivers will say when they get that old?

[GpaVader]

Testing for people over 85 would not be a bad thing, but how frequently?

As for the 5 years, if FL is anything like MN, sentenced to 5 years and will do 3.5 in the big house and the remainder on supervised release...

[reggiethurlow]

Sir, I am 86, I will bet you that I am in better physical condition than you are. I will surpass your daily exercise routine with out a doubt.
Can you do or have you ever done a tri-athlon?

[merrymini]

The injured parties should sue her in civil court. With this conviction, I am certain they would receive a judgement. They deserve some compensation for the harm she had done to them and they cannot hurt her in any other way. Do not feel any sympathy for her for leaving two people on the road after hitting them, no matter what kind of car she was driving.

[thelegges]

Meh. I would have been really impressed if all the elderly after age 85 have to surrender their drivers license.

Just think how light the auto traffic would be in TV, if you got your wish. Might want to put that suggestion in the DMV box:a040:

[Two Bills]

The injured parties should sue her in civil court. With this conviction, I am certain they would receive a judgement. They deserve some compensation for the harm she had done to them and they cannot hurt her in any other way. Do not feel any sympathy for her for leaving two people on the road after hitting them, no matter what kind of car she was driving.

Civil case already underway.

[msilagy]

The parties injured, especially the wife will never be whole again because of the severity affecting her speech, thoughts, and mobility. Her husband also has post issues. These were very experienced cyclists and belong to the Villages cycling club. There is a civil law suit underway already and my guess is she will die in jail possibly and everything she has may go to the injured. She deserved it especially after her statement "I am sorry, I should have stayed homes that day" SERIOUSLY!!!! maybe "I'm sorry I injured this couple and left the scene of the accident". Her lawyer asked if she could go home to straighten out her affairs and the judge replied "she had 2 years to do that". Handcuffs on.....Happy Holidays!

[airstreamingypsy]

She didn't get 5 years for hitting them. She got 5 years for hitting them, stopping and getting out and seeing the carnage and getting back in and driving away. Then, if that's not bad enough she sent the car out of town to be repaired and dyed her white hair brown. Hitting them was an accident, driving away, hiding the car and changing her appearance was calculated. A young woman's life has been destroyed, so has her husbands. I hope they are well compensated.

[joelfmi]

what she did is an example of how some people in our country believe they can skirt the laws in our country and get away with it. She needs to be in jail longer for what she did may these poor people killed rest in peace

[ThirdOfFive]

I don't know any of the facts. Was she drinking, on drugs? Multiple offenses? Sound state of mind? Just seems like a possible huge burden on the state.

Granny doesn't need to pay for housing, car expense, property tax , income tax, insurance, food, medical expenses, utilities anymore and still get her pension, social security and IRA income. Do you think you could keep her a bit longer so our inheritance can build up a little more?
Depends on the state.

I don't yet know how the system works in Florida but UpNort an inmate is routinely billed for room and board while incarcerated. Depending on the state they can garnish wages, freeze assets, and do clawbacks if the inmate tried to hide assets by giving them away or establishing trusts. They may also be able to recoup medical costs. Generally neither Medicare nor Medicaid will pay for medical services while incarcerated, and as far as I know private insurance won't either: one of the reasons medical services in prison are pretty basic.

Had a client once who did just short of a year in jail on an assault and battery conviction. He was incensed as h3ll when he got the bill for his stay, and even more so when he found out that just not paying it back didn't work. His wages were garnished and his tax refunds (Federal and State) were gobbled up each year.

[msilagy]

airstreaminggypsy.....you are so RIGHT! Everything you said - leaving the scene was her downfall. This couple will never recover from this physically and mentally. She got what she deserved.

[Fastskiguy]

A travesty of justice.

Maybe if these bicyclists and their clubs(more like gangs) learned to ride responsibly these type accidents would never occur.

Getting hit from behind is the fault of the bicyclists? I'm afraid we have no common ground on this issue.

Joe

[Jokomo]

5 years for a 91-year-old with no criminal history is extreme. It's not like she intended to hurt the bikers. Yes, she screwed up leaving the scene but c’mon 5 years.

Hopefully, she appeals the sentence and the VN is why most people hate the media. For all we know it was some old 1998 Mercedes with 200,000 miles on it.

5 years for the damage done and her actions after the fact is barely adequate. The victims in this case will suffer lifetime repercussions and I feel much more sympathy for them than the driver.

[ThirdOfFive]

Sir, I am 86, I will bet you that I am in better physical condition than you are. I will surpass your daily exercise routine with out a doubt.
Can you do or have you ever done a tri-athlon?
I don't think that physical condition is the issue here. There are inevitable declines that come with age, and those declines happen to all of us. Things like slower reaction times, narrowing peripheral vision, Various impairments in hearing and vision, ongoing decline in depth perception, impaired judgment (a biggie), etc. etc. all go to making drivers more dangerous to themselves and others as age progresses.

I am 75 and can play singles tennis for two hours--3.5 - 4.0 level (though age is having an effect there). I also play golf (use a pull-cart), engage in archery, help with farm work, etc. I weigh six pounds more than I did when I graduated high school. I believe I am in better physical condition than most men here my age, and many younger, but I stopped driving at night two years ago, and drive during the day only in good weather and on roads I am familiar with. I recognized the inevitable deterioration that advancing age has on my driving skills and have no wish to put myself or others at risk in the road.

[jmpalladino]

Coleman has minimum and maximum security

Coleman is a Federal Prison. She will serve time in a State Prison as her crime was prosecuted under state law.

[Aces4]

Not fair, but there should be testing. We have a neighbor in his 90's who is sharp as a tack and in good health. We should not create buckets that don't differentiate. There are people in their 70's who should not be driving.

Right there is the problem. If you believe a neighbor in his nineties is as sharp with reactions and reflexes as someone in their sixties and even seventies, you’re not being realistic. I don’t care how “sharp” they are.

[JGibson]

5 years for the damage done and her actions after the fact is barely adequate. The victims in this case will suffer lifetime repercussions and I feel much more sympathy for them than the driver.

If she stayed at the scene they would’ve still had the same injuries.

They gave her 5 years not for the injuries but for leaving the scene.

If there is some evidence that she was drunk or driving recklessly I will change my mind.

I believe she deserves some punishment but at 91 and with no criminal history 5 years is a death sentence.

I really believe there was more behind the sentencing than just the crime.
I wonder if she was driving an old Toyota Corolla if she would’ve gotten this much time.

It's a travesty all around but I think people are suicidal riding bikes around the TV. Join a gym.

[Bilyclub]

Five years is most likely a death sentence, but she was pretty calculated in her moves after the accident. Looks like you have to serve 85% of the sentence in Florida.

https://supremecourt.flcourts.gov/content/download/242696/file/Johnson%2013-711(1).pdf

[Mary1220]

I am glad this woman was charged and will be penalized even at 91 she should be held accountable but there are more ways to hold someone accountable than a prison or jail sentence. She should have been given a 30 day sentenced followed by 5 years of ankle monitor and home confinement not able to leave home for anything other than doctor's appointments. Our prison and jail system cost tax payers money and it is over burdened. There is little to no medical care and she will most likely be tortured due to this one issue.It will cost US the tax payers probably $75,000 a year to house her if not more if she has medical issues. I advocate for alternative sentences for many reasons. I hope she also had to pay money to these people that she hurt.

A 91 year old woman Villager was recently sentenced to 5 years in prison for a hit and run accident that seriously injured two bicyclists in 2020 near Morse Blvd in The Villages. After hitting the bicyclists, she got out of her car, saw the people she hit, and then drove home. She was later arrested when she tried to get her car repaired in Gainesville. The judge denied her request to delay serving her term and she was immediately taken into custody. Although it took more than 2 years to get justice, I wish more crimes were handled that way.

[nn0wheremann]

I don't know any of the facts. Was she drinking, on drugs? Multiple offenses? Sound state of mind? Just seems like a possible huge burden on the state.

Granny doesn't need to pay for housing, car expense, property tax , income tax, insurance, food, medical expenses, utilities anymore and still get her pension, social security and IRA income. Do you think you could keep her a bit longer so our inheritance can build up a little more?
Convicted felons are ineligible to receive Social Security benefits for any months they are incarcerated. Hopefully someone who knows her name will report her incarceration to the Social Security office in Leesburg. Usually state courts and prison officials cannot be bothered to do so.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Meh. I would have been really impressed if all the elderly after age 85 have to surrender their drivers license. so I drive to Leesburg 5 or 6 days a week to gym, drive to Orlando 3or 4 nights every month to Salsa dance and eat out most nights , so you think next December when I turn 85 I will become so feeble that I shouldn’t drive anymore , anytime you would like to come for a long walk ,or a fast 3 mile run or 10 mile bike ride , or do my gym workout feel free to drop over

[sandyblanquera@gmail.com]

A travesty of justice.

Maybe if these bicyclists and their clubs(more like gangs) learned to ride responsibly these type accidents would never occur.

That’s generic criticism with no basis. I’ve had more people in cars try to hit me or scare me when on my bicycle purely because, like you, they find bicyclists annoying. That’s a great motive for ending up in jail if successful at hitting someone, but not a valid or legal reason to ride too close to a bicyclist who has the same legal right to use the road.

[Goinghiway]

why should we now have to support her for five years?, She should have been stripped of her wealth to provide for the injured parties, then left to suffer a shameless lifestyle of poverty....this would have been a better sentence...

[ThirdOfFive]

why should we now have to support her for five years?, She should have been stripped of her wealth to provide for the injured parties, then left to suffer a shameless lifestyle of poverty....this would have been a better sentence...
Why? Because our system is about justice, not revenge.

[fdpaq0580]

Not fair, but there should be testing. We have a neighbor in his 90's who is sharp as a tack and in good health. We should not create buckets that don't differentiate. There are people in their 70's who should not be driving.

There are people of all ages who misuse and abuse their driving privileges. There are people of all ages who have medical emergencies. Age discrimination is just another form of prejudice.

[mikeycereal]

I'm happy to see the older folks are keeping in shape and still got it. My Dad is in his mid 80s and he plays softball in an 80's league. Those old guys are an inspiration. :clap2:

[Mrs.Guy]

what she did is an example of how some people in our country believe they can skirt the laws in our country and get away with it. She needs to be in jail longer for what she did may these poor people killed rest in peace

:ohdear: Let me start by saying nobody feels more sympathy for the injured in this case than I do. With that said, I feel no glee in seeing a 91 year old sentenced to 5 years in prison as some on this site seem to. And may I ask you who got killed? Terribly injured..... yes. Killed..... no. Glad you weren't on the jury. :oops:

[seavon]

Upfront: I agree with all the comments. However, I wonder if putting an 81-year-old woman in prison helps anyone, even her since prison is supposed to be about getting the person to realize their mistake and getting them back into society. I think a more apt punishment that would cost the govt less would be to 1. home arrest with ankle bracelet - let her pay for her upkeep 2. revoke driving license forever 3. 5-year probation so if she leaves the home, to prison 4. punitive damages to family. Let's keep prison for the murderers and such who I do not want around.

[Vermilion Villager]

5 years for a 91-year-old with no criminal history is extreme. It's not like she intended to hurt the bikers. Yes, she screwed up leaving the scene but c’mon 5 years.



She hit the people...stopped...got out of her car and looked at the victims on the ground....got back in her car and drove off. Then she went right to a body shop to get the car repaired. Told the repairman the blood on the car was from an animal she just hit. When the police finally caught up to her and ask questions...she fled the state, lawyered up and has fought this case for at least 2 years. This is not Mother Theresa.

[fdpaq0580]

She hit the people...stopped...got out of her car and looked at the victims on the ground....got back in her car and drove off. Then she went right to a body shop to get the car repaired. Told the repairman the blood on the car was from an animal she just hit. When the police finally caught up to her and ask questions...she fled the state, lawyered up and has fought this case for at least 2 years. This is not Mother Theresa.

More like "Ma Barker", maybe?

[vinnytalk]

Meh. I would have been really impressed if all the elderly after age 85 have to surrender their drivers license.

That is a dumb thing to say , you are placing every senior in the same boat.

Try maybe retesting everyone every 6 years regardless of age.

How many accidents do you read at this age compared to younger people.

Think before you post

[dtennent]

That is a dumb thing to say , you are placing every senior in the same boat.

Try maybe retesting everyone every 6 years regardless of age.

How many accidents do you read at this age compared to younger people.

Think before you post

Totally agree with retesting every 5-6 years regardless of age. Not only does it serve to refresh our driving skills, it helps everyone to learn any new laws that have been passed. Maybe some of the drivers would actually come to a stop at a stop sign!

[Marine1974]

No social security payments while incarcerated for a felony. Check your facts .

[ThirdOfFive]

There are people of all ages who misuse and abuse their driving privileges. There are people of all ages who have medical emergencies. Age discrimination is just another form of prejudice.
Would you say that the Federal Aviation Administration's rule of not allowing an airline pilot to fly passengers after age 60 also "age discrimination" and thus another example of "prejudice"?

And why or why not?

[bluecenturian]

Travesty ? Are you serious. She wasn’t found guilty and sentenced to jail for hitting the bicyclist. She LEFT THE SCENE when someone was injured. No excuse for that. Accidents happen but willful neglect is irresponsible.

[Fastskiguy]

It's a travesty all around but I think people are suicidal riding bikes around the TV. Join a gym.

You have some good points and I have to comment on this one. TV is a "Gold Rated Community" but the League of American Bicyclists.

The Villages: Building a Bicycle Friendly Community in Florida | League of American Bicyclists (https://bikeleague.org/content/villages-building-bicycle-friendly-community-florida)

The fact that close calls, "bad feelings", and the occasionally maimed or killed cyclist happen here (one of the best places to ride in the entire country) is a sign that there is a major problem between cyclists and motorists.

And I just don't understand it. We're talking about taking just a moment, slowing down, and changing lanes. I doesn't matter if you're passing one rider or a group of 20, it's just a matter of seconds and you're past the group safely and on with your life as are they. Maybe once in awhile it's 20 seconds. But for some reason motorists just lose their everloving minds when they have to accommodate any other road users.

You even have posts on this thread (#11) that suggest cyclist wouldn't get hit if they rode responsibly. I mean, what the hell?? Is it OK to mow down anybody on or near the roadway just because they might be 1 foot to the left of where you think they should be?

I don't know what the solution is but it sure is a problem.

Joe

[Aces4]

That is a dumb thing to say , you are placing every senior in the same boat.

Try maybe retesting everyone every 6 years regardless of age.

How many accidents do you read at this age compared to younger people.

Think before you post


Retesting is a joke. People, in general, know the driving manual. I’m talking about over age 85 physical reflexes, mental reflexes and physical agility. Those abilities are greatly diminished after age 85, it doesn’t make any difference if you can bench press 500 lbs at that age.

Your analogy of younger drivers having more accidents is skewed. You would have to compare miles driven, highways driven, weather conditions and beginner drivers to start with.

There have been so many accidental hit the gas rather than the brake and put it in drive instead of reverse which the elderly person intended.

The woman in this sad accident is the perfect example. Do you think she is on the road everyday driving to work, picking up children from school and all of the activities of younger drivers? Of course not. Many fewer hours are driven by the elderly so those stats you provided don’t hold water in that boat.

[ThirdOfFive]

You have some good points and I have to comment on this one. TV is a "Gold Rated Community" but the League of American Bicyclists.

The Villages: Building a Bicycle Friendly Community in Florida | League of American Bicyclists (https://bikeleague.org/content/villages-building-bicycle-friendly-community-florida)

The fact that close calls, "bad feelings", and the occasionally maimed or killed cyclist happen here (one of the best places to ride in the entire country) is a sign that there is a major problem between cyclists and motorists.

And I just don't understand it. We're talking about taking just a moment, slowing down, and changing lanes. I doesn't matter if you're passing one rider or a group of 20, it's just a matter of seconds and you're past the group safely and on with your life as are they. Maybe once in awhile it's 20 seconds. But for some reason motorists just lose their everloving minds when they have to accommodate any other road users.

You even have posts on this thread (#11) that suggest cyclist wouldn't get hit if they rode responsibly. I mean, what the hell?? Is it OK to mow down anybody on or near the roadway just because they might be 1 foot to the left of where you think they should be?

I don't know what the solution is but it sure is a problem.

Joe
Good points. It is a fact that the practice of mixing bicyclists and motorists on our streets (and to a lesser extent on highways) poses risk, sometimes considerable, for the bicyclist(s). Yes, they have a legal right to be there: I don't know about the rest of you but I'd rather be alive than right.

Back in Minneapolis (before the riots changed the downtowns into more-or-less ghost towns) you'd see bicyclists riding in downtown Minneapolis, usually two- by-two, and often at speeds that if an automobile was doing it, could easily result in a ticket for going too slow and impeding traffic. Driving in cities can be frustrating: if there is a vehicle or vehicles ahead of you going at about 1/2 to 2/3 your speed and you have a timeline to meet, are late for an appointment or a meeting, etc., it can be infuriating. Human nature is what it is. Lots of horn blowing, hand gestures, risk-taking, and sometimes even violence. There've been instances of cars intentionally bumping bicyclists, pulling next to them and forcing them to the curb, etc. To many drivers, bicyclists are seen as entitled jerks that see themselves as above the law, and their passive-aggressive cycling habits that inhibit traffic flow is resented in the extreme.

I am pretty sure that there are bicyclists who see motorists in equally negative lights, and both may be true, to a greater or lesser extent. But the truth of the matter is that bicycles and cars don't mix well, never really have, and it doesn't seem to be getting any better.

[VApeople]

Totally agree with retesting every 5-6 years regardless of age.

That is how it used to be in Florida.

When I was at the Univ. of Florida in the 1960's, I had to go to the DMV to be tested every year or two. They checked my vision, hearing, and my ability to read traffic signs.

It was basically to see if I was a functioning adult and, of course, I passed easily. Now I am 77 and I think all drivers my age should be tested every year.

[Koapaka]

Civil case already underway.

I have lived it. I hope this couple gets everything they deserve to help with expenses they will continue to deal with for the rest of their days. Trust me when I tell you if I had been awarded all the money Bill Gates has, it would not be enough for the loss of function for the rest of your life. People seem to think money makes everything better. Sad

[Aces4]

That is how it used to be in Florida.

When I was at the Univ. of Florida in the 1960's, I had to go to the DMV to be tested every year or two. They checked my vision, hearing, and my ability to read traffic signs.

It was basically to see if I was a functioning adult and, of course, I passed easily. Now I am 77 and I think all drivers my age should be tested every year.

They should also be tested for swift braking ability, quick maneuvering when required, ability to turn head and neck to check blind spots… the list goes on and on.

[Stu from NYC]

She hit the people...stopped...got out of her car and looked at the victims on the ground....got back in her car and drove off. Then she went right to a body shop to get the car repaired. Told the repairman the blood on the car was from an animal she just hit. When the police finally caught up to her and ask questions...she fled the state, lawyered up and has fought this case for at least 2 years. This is not Mother Theresa.

She deserves the sentence she got. Miserable excuse for a human being.

[jjombrello]

Before you make a comment such as this, you should go back and read just how this accident occurred.

I am not a fan of the mass bicycling we see in TV as I have witnessed too many times the running of stop signs and unsafe side-by-side riding. Despite the pronouncements of the bicycle clubs of their safe operations, they should get out the driving manual and memorize it.

[Mrs.Guy]

:shrug: IMHO some of these posts (possibly mine too) are:

vir·tue sig·nal·ing

noun - DEROGATORY

"The public expression of opinions or sentiments intended to demonstrate one's good character or social conscience or the moral correctness of one's position on a particular issue.
It's noticeable how often virtue signaling consists of saying you hate things". - Quote from online dictionary

I think the punishment fits the crime..... what I don't understand for the life of me is people being so nasty(IMHO) towards a 91 year old human being who is someone's mother and probably grandmother. "Miserable excuse for a human being" seems a bit much. I'm convinced the woman was guilty and sentenced correctly..... just not OVER JOYED about it. To me it's a bad time of the year to be hateful. PEACE and MERRY CHRISTmas.

[Daddymac]

A travesty of justice.

Maybe if these bicyclists and their clubs(more like gangs) learned to ride responsibly these type accidents would never occur.

Right Here!! They are the people crying about “Cars” on the road. Yet they don’t abide by any traffic laws. They think they own the roads... Forget Stop 🛑 signs

[Pairadocs]

What I found telling was that in all the news reports I have read about her conduct she was always reported as driving a Mercedes. It felt to me like an attempt to foster class hatred upon her although I personally found her conduct beyond reprehensible no matter what she was driving. She deserves to do the time as she definitely committed the crime. The OP wrote she was driving a car for which I am most appreciative.

The mention of the make of car also struck me as bizaar ! But that seems to be a standard "thing" with writers; not just in this local. We have many US Marines in our family; we've always noticed that when something really horrifying happens (a robbery, killing, fatal auto or boat accident, etc.) an article NEVER says, ex-navy member, or former army member or airman, but ALWAYS "ex-MARINE" ! ? It's something we've noticed for years no matter where we've lived or what newspaper we read. Once in another city we noticed that when a teen committed a an outrageous act, it never said "-------, son of a machinist, or son of a grounds keeper, or son of an auto mechanic, did ______." But it ALWAYS stated "son of a local pastor, or son on a local school principal, son of mayor ______, and so on. SOME jobs and professions seem to be held MORE responsible for the bad behavior of their children than others ? Seems so. Kind of the same line as the old "if it bleeds it leads" theory of "journalism" ? Nothing new, but yes, how many local articles mention a Ford, or Chevy ? LOL ! In that same subject area, had a similar "chit chat" discussion with our adult children over Thanksgiving. An article in their local paper triggered a discussion of SUV's (which we, and our children happen to drive). Son pointed out how if/when an automobile crashes through the front of a business (often driver error or illness), the news paper will always say SUV crashes through local grocery, injuring several shoppers. But, it never says "sedan" or "coupe" crashes through _______ . Isn't THAT strange our son offered ?

[Stu from NYC]

:shrug: IMHO some of these posts (possibly mine too) are:

vir·tue sig·nal·ing

noun - DEROGATORY

"The public expression of opinions or sentiments intended to demonstrate one's good character or social conscience or the moral correctness of one's position on a particular issue.
It's noticeable how often virtue signaling consists of saying you hate things". - Quote from online dictionary

I think the punishment fits the crime..... what I don't understand for the life of me is people being so nasty(IMHO) towards a 91 year old human being who is someone's mother and probably grandmother. "Miserable excuse for a human being" seems a bit much. I'm convinced the woman was guilty and sentenced correctly..... just not OVER JOYED about it. To me it's a bad time of the year to be hateful. PEACE and MERRY CHRISTmas.

Considering what she did and her actions afterward I stand by my comment. Hateful not at all. If she is someones mother hope the children turned out better than she did.

[Aces4]

Considering what she did and her actions afterward I stand by my comment. Hateful not at all. If she is someones mother hope the children turned out better than she did.

I think in this case it wasn’t planned to leave the scene of the accident. The terror of what had happened most likely didn’t allow this ninety plus year old woman to think clearly.

A good friend in his early thirties was driving along a street one day years ago and a young man stepped from between two cars directly in front of his vehicle. The young man was killed instantly even though my friend tried to stop and then help him after the impact. My friend confided to me that he almost left the scene, he was so horrified and scared even though he couldn’t avoid the accident.

The suicide note from the deceased young man was found in his home after the accident and his death by vehicle was planned.

We all hope that we and our children and grandchildren would do the right thing if such an accident happened to them. We never know…

[WingedFoot78]

Please......Don't start another dog poop thread!

[birdawg]

Evil person

[nancyre]

If you are in an accident, you stay, you call 911, and you get help for those injured. You do not pull over get out see what you caused and then leave the victims to suffer. You do not have your vehicle quickly repaired to hide it.

[Stu from NYC]

I think in this case it wasn’t planned to leave the scene of the accident. The terror of what had happened most likely didn’t allow this ninety plus year old woman to think clearly.

A good friend in his early thirties was driving along a street one day years ago and a young man stepped from between two cars directly in front of his vehicle. The young man was killed instantly even though my friend tried to stop and then help him after the impact. My friend confided to me that he almost left the scene, he was so horrified and scared even though he couldn’t avoid the accident.

The suicide note from the deceased young man was found in his home after the accident and his death by vehicle was planned.

We all hope that we and our children and grandchildren would do the right thing if such an accident happened to them. We never know…

Obviously she did not plan to have the accident but she did leave and than tried to have the damage fixed quickly as to remove the evidence. That part happened long after the initial accident. Cannot get past that.

[Bay Kid]

Such a shame for all involved. A total tragedy.

[RiderOnTheStorm]

A travesty of justice.

Maybe if these bicyclists and their clubs(more like gangs) learned to ride responsibly these type accidents would never occur.

Generally speaking, while I have great sympathy for the victims, agree that this woman's behavior was reprehensible and recognize bicyclists right to the roadway, I think bicyclists need to be much more careful about how they assert these rights: Tandem riders blocking roadways at 15 MPH, or lagging members of a peloton entering a roundabout and forcing cars already in the circle to stop (examples of what I regularly observe), is a prescription for disaster. I rode bicycles and motorcycles without incident for 50+ years by always giving way to the largely insensitive car and truck drivers who could have taken me out at any time. Again, generally speaking, the roadway is NOT the place for a bicyclist to contest what are his/her legal rights. They will always lose, sometimes catastrophically.

[merrymini]

If she stayed at the scene they would’ve still had the same injuries.

They gave her 5 years not for the injuries but for leaving the scene.

If there is some evidence that she was drunk or driving recklessly I will change my mind.

I believe she deserves some punishment but at 91 and with no criminal history 5 years is a death sentence.

I really believe there was more behind the sentencing than just the crime.
I wonder if she was driving an old Toyota Corolla if she would’ve gotten this much time.

It's a travesty all around but I think people are suicidal riding bikes around the TV. Join a gym.

Biking is a great activity but you do put yourself at greater risk if hit by a car. A golf cart would not do so well either. Should we stop driving them too? This woman’s behavior is inexcusable. Glad to see her locked up.

[rrtjp]

:shrug: IMHO some of these posts (possibly mine too) are:

vir·tue sig·nal·ing

noun - DEROGATORY

"The public expression of opinions or sentiments intended to demonstrate one's good character or social conscience or the moral correctness of one's position on a particular issue.
It's noticeable how often virtue signaling consists of saying you hate things". - Quote from online dictionary

I think the punishment fits the crime..... what I don't understand for the life of me is people being so nasty(IMHO) towards a 91 year old human being who is someone's mother and probably grandmother. "Miserable excuse for a human being" seems a bit much. I'm convinced the woman was guilty and sentenced correctly..... just not OVER JOYED about it. To me it's a bad time of the year to be hateful. PEACE and MERRY CHRISTmas.

“A bit much”
What do you call someone regardless of age that knowingly hurts someone, leaves the scene, doesn’t call for help and then tries to cover up what she did?
IMHO “a miserable excuse for a human being” is pretty accurate. This has nothing to do with what time of the year it is or hate.
The people she severely injured and their families are not going to be having a very merry CHRISTmas this year.

[Lindsyburnsy]

As I recall in drivers ed classes, you are supposed to have your car under control at all times. A travesty of justice.

Maybe if these bicyclists and their clubs(more like gangs) learned to ride responsibly these type accidents would never occur.

[YeOldeCurmudgeon]

The woman is 91 years old!

First of all, permanently suspend her driving privileges.

But prison, for someone 91? I don't see what good to society it serves to support the prison system this way.

Why not provide some way to mandate a sentence of community service for several years or as long as she is able to provide it. That to me would be a proper sentence in addition to suspending her driving privileges. If she can afford a Mercedes, she can afford an Uber to the place of service.

[PugMom]

I'm happy to see the older folks are keeping in shape and still got it. My Dad is in his mid 80s and he plays softball in an 80's league. Those old guys are an inspiration. :clap2:

exactly! look @ Clint Eastwood :bigbow:

[JGibson]

You have some good points and I have to comment on this one. TV is a "Gold Rated Community" but the League of American Bicyclists.

The Villages: Building a Bicycle Friendly Community in Florida | League of American Bicyclists (https://bikeleague.org/content/villages-building-bicycle-friendly-community-florida)

The fact that close calls, "bad feelings", and the occasionally maimed or killed cyclist happen here (one of the best places to ride in the entire country) is a sign that there is a major problem between cyclists and motorists.

And I just don't understand it. We're talking about taking just a moment, slowing down, and changing lanes. I doesn't matter if you're passing one rider or a group of 20, it's just a matter of seconds and you're past the group safely and on with your life as are they. Maybe once in awhile it's 20 seconds. But for some reason motorists just lose their everloving minds when they have to accommodate any other road users.

You even have posts on this thread (#11) that suggest cyclist wouldn't get hit if they rode responsibly. I mean, what the hell?? Is it OK to mow down anybody on or near the roadway just because they might be 1 foot to the left of where you think they should be?

I don't know what the the solution is but it sure is a problem.

Joe

Thanks for a mature response.

One solution would be to have dedicated barrier-protected bike lanes. Similar to what lots of cities have done to encourage bike riding for exercise and climate.

On another note all these 80+ people who are so proud of their health and rightfully so don't have the same reflexes as younger people.
Unless someone knows how to improve reflexes I wouldn’t get too arrogant about your triathlons.

[Maybelle]

A 91 year old woman Villager was recently sentenced to 5 years in prison for a hit and run accident that seriously injured two bicyclists in 2020 near Morse Blvd in The Villages. After hitting the bicyclists, she got out of her car, saw the people she hit, and then drove home. She was later arrested when she tried to get her car repaired in Gainesville. The judge denied her request to delay serving her term and she was immediately taken into custody. Although it took more than 2 years to get justice, I wish more crimes were handled that way.

This is a death penalty. While the cyclists were seriously injured and the driver definitely should be punished, she could be sentenced to home confinement. A jail death sentence for a woman that age is not commensurate with the crime.

[sjeffries]

exactly! look @ Clint Eastwood :bigbow:

As a driver of a vehicle, would you be more careful and considerate of bicycle riders if you knew your family members were on those bikes?

Would you be less prejudiced about Hamilton’s sentence if she was your mother?

We don’t know her health issues, mental condition or what she thought on that day. No question she made some serious, criminal decisions for which she should pay the price.

We have to trust that the judge who knew all the circumstances, made the right decision. This event should be a valuable lesson to all drivers, young and old. Discuss it with your family.

[Mrs.Guy]

This is a death penalty. While the cyclists were seriously injured and the driver definitely should be punished, she could be sentenced to home confinement. A jail death sentence for a woman that age is not commensurate with the crime.

:sad: I understand your feelings on this..... I don't agree, but do understand. I think the sentence is correct. 91 or 19 shouldn't come into play. What I don't understand as I have said before is some peoples' JOY seeing it imposed. :ohdear:

[Red Rose]

I have a feeling that she was drunk when she hit the bicyclists so she left the scene to avoid being found out. So, we will never know for sure.

[Mrs.Guy]

“A bit much”
What do you call someone regardless of age that knowingly hurts someone, leaves the scene, doesn’t call for help and then tries to cover up what she did?
IMHO “a miserable excuse for a human being” is pretty accurate. This has nothing to do with what time of the year it is or hate.
The people she severely injured and their families are not going to be having a very merry CHRISTmas this year.

:sad: I call that person a convicted criminal who is about to do serious prison time. I also agree with the sentence as I have stated. "A bit much" still my opinion when someone makes them self feel better by calling a 91 year old woman names. You don't have to agree. My posts have "EVERYTHING TO DO WITH THE HATE" being expressed by a lot of posters. IMHO :ohdear:

[rrtjp]

:sad: I call that person a convicted criminal who is about to do serious prison time. I also agree with the sentence as I have stated. "A bit much" still my opinion when someone makes them self feel better by calling a 91 year old woman names. You don't have to agree. My posts have "EVERYTHING TO DO WITH THE HATE" being expressed by a lot of posters. IMHO :ohdear:
I think a lot of the hate people feel here is that in todays society some people refuse to accept responsibility for their actions, I for one have had it with people like this regardless of their age. Always some excuse why it’s not their fault. Being 91 years old is not a legal excuse. She knowingly left 2 people to die. Shake your head at that why don’t you.
No one is calling her names to feel better they are just stating the obvious. What type of person can do something like that and live with themselves?
Do you need a hint?
If you do see previous posts.

[fdpaq0580]

Personally, I find only sadness in regard to all aspects of this incident. Lives have been ruined. The only feeling other than sadness is satisfaction that some semblance of justice has been served. There are no winners here, only satisfaction that the guilty have been caught and will be punished. The victims will never be fully restored, regardless of any compensation. Terribly sad all around.

[mikempp]

I'm amazed with the speeds most people drive in the Villages and the regular cutting off that occurs we don't have more accidents. I usually drive 5-8 miles per hour over the limit and get tailgated and passed like I'm standing still at times. At it's usually some old old codger or old woman. Then they won't look at you. At first I thought i was the young drivers. By the way I'm 70.

[justjim]

Coleman has minimum and maximum security

Coleman is a Federal Prison for those that commit a federal crime.

[Bay Kid]

Maybe the court should of awarded the victims all of the 91 year old woman's money then sentenced her to a state nursing home.

[patfla06]

She didn't get 5 years for hitting them. She got 5 years for hitting them, stopping and getting out and seeing the carnage and getting back in and driving away. Then, if that's not bad enough she sent the car out of town to be repaired and dyed her white hair brown. Hitting them was an accident, driving away, hiding the car and changing her appearance was calculated. A young woman's life has been destroyed, so has her husbands. I hope they are well compensated.

Well said!
Also I wish more drivers here when seeing bicycles in the right
lane would get over right away and not wait until the last moment.

[fdpaq0580]

This is a death penalty. While the cyclists were seriously injured and the driver definitely should be punished, she could be sentenced to home confinement. A jail death sentence for a woman that age is not commensurate with the crime.

Semantics! Not a "death sentence". She is not going to the electric chair.
It is a "life" sentence to be incarcerated until she passes or is paroled.
Imho, home confinement isn't as stiff as a real "time out", for hit and run that ruined two lives.
I feel very sorry for all involved. Sadly, the driver was, reasonably, terrified and did what many really frightened folks would do when the poop hits the fan; duck, and run for cover.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Semantics! Not a "death sentence". She is not going to the electric chair.
It is a "life" sentence to be incarcerated until she passes or is paroled.
Imho, home confinement isn't as stiff as a real "time out", for hit and run that ruined two lives.
I feel very sorry for all involved. Sadly, the driver was, reasonably, terrified and did what many really frightened folks would do when the poop hits the fan; duck, and run for cover.

She didn't merely duck and run. She ducked, snuck over to make sure there really was damage done, ran, and then tried to obfuscate the evidence.

[fdpaq0580]

She didn't merely duck and run. She ducked, snuck over to make sure there really was damage done, ran, and then tried to obfuscate the evidence.

"Snuck over"? I wasn't there, so I'm not sure how she moved. Frightened people often do not act reasonably or rationally or responsibly.
As I said before, imo it is terrible for all involved. And, I'm sorry that the woman did not live up to your expectations.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

"Snuck over"? I wasn't there, so I'm not sure how she moved. Frightened people often do not act reasonably or rationally or responsibly.
As I said before, imo it is terrible for all involved. And, I'm sorry that the woman did not live up to your expectations.

I had no expectations. I don't know the woman.

[Happydaz]

"Snuck over"? I wasn't there, so I'm not sure how she moved. Frightened people often do not act reasonably or rationally or responsibly.
As I said before, imo it is terrible for all involved. And, I'm sorry that the woman did not live up to your expectations.

The woman who hit the bicyclists did not live up to legal “expectations” and for that reason she received a prison sentence from the American court system.

[EdFNJ]

A 91 year old woman Villager was recently sentenced to 5 years in prison for a hit and run accident that seriously injured two bicyclists in 2020 near Morse Blvd in The Villages. .

At 91 that's likely capital punishment. I'd bet if she even spends 1 month in prison it would be a lot. A lawyer could easily get her home confinement.

[Spalumbos62]

At 91 that's likely capital punishment. I'd bet if she even spends 1 month in prison it would be a lot. A lawyer could easily get her home confinement.

I agree....I don't know much about women in prison, except maybe from watching "Orange is the new black". Although I agree that this women needs to be locked up and the key thrown away....how's this gonna work? 91 folks! She's lived here with all kinds of incentive to get up every morning, look good, go shop, lunch with friends, golf...whatever it's been...that's all stopping, and fast because it will be so abrupt, her dowfall will happen fast...so now what, she needs an aide to dress and feed her, a walker to go out to the yard. Will she sit on her bed and stare all day.
I am certainly not saying she shouldn't go to jail, but when she does, like someone else said, it's a death sentence. You can't make this stuff up, it's what movies are made of.

[PugMom]

Personally, I find only sadness in regard to all aspects of this incident. Lives have been ruined. The only feeling other than sadness is satisfaction that some semblance of justice has been served. There are no winners here, only satisfaction that the guilty have been caught and will be punished. The victims will never be fully restored, regardless of any compensation. Terribly sad all around.


best comment yet

[Fastskiguy]

Right Here!! They are the people crying about “Cars” on the road. Yet they don’t abide by any traffic laws. They think they own the roads... Forget Stop 🛑 signs

Because rolling thru a stop sign is clearly a capital offense. Obviously the burden to slow down and watch out for cyclists is simply too great for drivers. They get what they deserve. It's the drivers' obligation to teach them a lesson.

(Apologies in advance if this isn't what you meant)

Joe