Teen Driver Sentenced In Death Of Bensalem High School Student
DOYLESTOWN, Pa. (CBS) -- A Bensalem teen is headed to county prison, following his sentencing today in Bucks County court.
Earlier this year, the 19-year-old was convicted of Vehicular Homicide in last December's death of a Bensalem High School student as she tried to catch her bus.
In his allocution, Michael Shelly's lower lip quivered as he said he'll never forget that day, adding whatever happens to him, it will never be enough. He broke into tears listening to friends and family remember the 16-year-old he killed, Minete Zeka along Bensalem Boulevard last December, as he was driving a Ford Bronco II with a broken defroster, and a counterfeit inspection sticker.
Bucks County judge Gary Gilman sentenced Shelly to 11.5 months to 23 months in prison, followed by five years probation, he is also ordered to help produce a video or pamphlet outlining the dangers of driving an unsafe vehicle.
Prosecutor Jonathan Long says there are no winners in this sentencing, but the community service could be a plus:
"If there's anything we can do to drive that point home, and maybe some kids learn from this and we avoid this kind of thing in the future, that would be great."
Shelly is also required to pay $2,000 to a scholarship fund at Bensalem High School in Minete Zeka's name.