A plea deal was reached Monday morning in Christian Circuit Court for Sherita Thomas, the woman who was driving impaired when she fatally struck Stephanie Wagner with her vehicle in July of 2017.
Thomas entered a guilty plea to charges of second-degree manslaughter, DUI, tampering with evidence and leaving the scene of an accident. The manslaughter charge comes with a 10 year sentence and the remaining counts come with 5 years each—with all to be served concurrently—meaning she could spend a maximum of 10 years incarcerated. The Commonwealth did not make any recommendations regarding potential probation, with that decision ultimately up to the discretion of Circuit Judge Andrew Self.
Thomas struck Wagner with her vehicle as Wagner was leaning against the back of a legally parked car on East Fourth Street in July of 2017, according to the original Hopkinsville Police Department report. She then fled the scene before hiding her truck in a garage. She was later located and determined to be extremely impaired.
Commonwealth’s Attorney Rick Boling believes the plea deal is fair for everyone involved.
He says the sentence will allow Thomas to receive treatment for any substance abuse problems.
Thomas will remain out on bond, pending final sentencing, which is scheduled for May 15th. Thomas told Judge Self that she is working at a local fast food establishment. She will continue to be tested for drugs once a week, but was removed from her ankle monitor against the wishes of defense attorney Leland Hulbert, as she was receiving credit for time served while wearing the device.
Family members of Thomas and Wagner were in the courtroom for the hearing.