Trooper Sentenced: Reckless Driving Leads to Heartbreaking Loss and Legal Consequences

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HARRISBURG, PA — Michael J. Brown, a former Pennsylvania State Trooper, has been sentenced for vehicular homicide following a tragic accident last year. Brown, aged 36, received a prison sentence ranging from six to 23 months in Tioga County Court on Friday and is scheduled to begin his incarceration on November 1. Additionally, he was ordered to pay a $1,000 fine and over $4,000 in restitution for funeral expenses.

The incident occurred while Brown was off-duty, driving on Route 6 in Sullivan Township. Attempting to overtake a vehicle, he crossed double yellow lines, colliding with an oncoming car and causing the death of its driver, 47-year-old Christine Woodward. Woodward, a beloved mother and teacher, lost her life in the tragic accident.

Attorney General Michelle Henry emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “No one is above the law, including those sworn to uphold it. The defendant’s reckless actions led to the tragic death of a devoted mother and teacher. Nothing can bring her back to those who so dearly loved her. This case should serve as a wake-up call for drivers who put others’ lives at risk for the sake of shaving a few seconds or minutes off their commute.”

Brown was convicted of homicide by vehicle by a jury in May, and the presiding judge subsequently found him guilty of additional traffic violations. The prosecution team comprised Senior Deputy Attorney General Christopher Phillips, Deputy Attorney General Philip McCarthy, and Senior Deputy Attorney General Tracy Piatkowski. This case highlights the accountability of all individuals, regardless of their position, and the ongoing commitment to justice for victims and their families.

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