We are talking about potential tragedy.
We are talking about lives that could have been lost.
Now, let me read to you what the prosecutor has recommended.
Assistant District Attorney Sarah Chen, who has been with the Providence DA’s office for nine years and has handled over 327 traffic cases with an 89% conviction rate, is asking for a substantial fine of $10,000, a 2-year license suspension, 150 hours of mandatory community service, and a jail sentence of 90 days to drive home the seriousness of these offenses.
the defense attorney, attorney Jennifer Morrison from Morrison Legal Group on North Main Street, and she is a good attorney who has been practicing criminal defense for 15 years, graduating from Roger Williams Law School in 2009, is asking for leniency.
She points out that Madison Thornton has no prior criminal record.
She suggests that a fine of $3,000 and 80 hours of community service would be sufficient.
She also mentions that her client is young, having graduated from Moses Brown School in 2019 and Boston University in 2023 with a degree in marketing and communications and argues that a harsh sentence could damage her future career prospects.
I have listened to both arguments.
I have reviewed all the evidence.
I have read the police reports.
I have looked at the social media posts, specifically the Instagram post from August 15th and 16th where Madison posted videos captioned, “Got pulled over by the most pathetic cop ever.
And seriously, this guy thinks he can mess with me.
I have watched the Ring doorbell footage showing her traveling at excessive speeds.
I have considered the defendant’s age, 23 years old, and her background.
I have considered everything that should be considered in a case like this.
