Many list members may recall that Janet Jones was struck and killed by a car at 38th and Nicollet on December 6, 2,002.
I spoke with one of the 5th Precinct Traffic Officers today, who confirmed that the investigation has been concluded. The driver of the vehicle was cited for "inattentive driving" and so the case will continue on to court.
Because I called as a citizen -- not as someone related to Janet Jones -- the only other information available to me is the case number ( 02338950 ). This makes sense to me that the police would not release investigative details of such a crash to just anyone.
I think we all could learn by following the court process of such a case -- especially if the driver remained anonymous. I'm not sure how one goes about this. Do any of our professional reporters or lawyers know how to find out about the trial date or ourcomes of this case?
I do not have a grudge here, but I am concerned to learn how our justice system works here, and also if there are facts that help us to make our streets safer. I know that the driver is presumed innocent until a court hears the case and passes judgement.
With a charge of "inattentive driving" I feel like it might have been me behind the wheel. While I rarely drive a car anymore, there are times when I've been pre-occupied or distracted. If the driver was indeed inattentive, then this tragically happened at a "wrong time and place" and someone was killed.
I did want to update the list with this information.
Take care -- and if you drive, drive with care as well!
Gary Hoover
King Field
