In re Pelkey, No. Mv9-404189 (Dec. 18, 2000)
Opinion of the Court
Application for review of sentence imposed by the Superior Court, Judicial District of Middlesex.
Docket No. MV9-404189.
William Fisher Defense Counsel, for Petitioner
Maureen Platt Assistant State's Attorney, for the State.
Assault 2nd degree (Motor Vehicle) 5 years ESA 4 years Probation 4 years
Operating under Influence (3rd offender) 2 years Consecutive ESA 120 days (Mandatory minimum) — probation 3 years
Operating under Suspension 1 year Consecutive ESA 2 months Probation 1 year ($500 fine)
Operating without insurance $1000 fine.
The total effective sentence was 8 years ESA 4 years, 6 months with probation for 4 years plus fines.
The petitioner ran a red light at a high rate of speed. When a police officer began a pursuit, he made an abrupt U-turn forcing the officer to swerve to avoid a head on collision. He then hit the victim's vehicle which was making a left hand turn. The petitioner's speed was approximately 81 mph and he had a BAC of .24. As noted he had two prior DUI convictions, was operating without insurance and under suspension.
The victim driver suffered a ruptured spleen which had to be removed, a lacerated liver, a broken arm, collapsed lung and a fractured pelvis.
In addition to his motor vehicle record, the petitioner has criminal convictions for burglary, 3rd degree, possession of a sawed-off shotgun; reckless endangerment; interfering with police; larcenies; breaches of peace and harassment.
His suggestion that his sentence was inappropriate or disproportionate is utterly without merit. (See Practice Book §
His behavior shows a total disregard for life and a disdain for the laws of the state.
There is no justification to consider reducing this sentence. It is affirmed.
Klaczak, Norko and Miano, J.s, participated in this decision.
Case-law data current through December 31, 2025. Source: CourtListener bulk data.