Tuesday, January 26, 1999
Lebanon activist's traffic-death trial to start today
BY RICHELLE THOMPSON
The Cincinnati Enquirer
LEBANON — The death of a 26-year-old Morrow man in June was tragic but accidental, a defense attorney plans to argue today in Lebanon Municipal Court.
James Brooks' death was not the result of criminal negligence by Cathy Mick, who is charged with misdemeanor vehicular homicide, her attorney, Charles Rittgers has said.
Mrs. Mick, 37, has pleaded not guilty to the charge, which carries a maximum of six months in prison and a $1,000 fine.
Mrs. Mick has been one of Lebanon's most outspoken political activists.
She served as treasurer for the group that fought to recall then-Councilwoman Mary-Ann Cole in May. Mrs. Mick asked to be appointed to a vacant council seat in June.
She campaigned last fall for a Lebanon school levy on the November ballot.
At the time of the 4 p.m. June 15 wreck, orange construction barrels lined the roadways and there was no traffic light, creating a dangerous intersection, Mr. Rittgers said.
In addition, he said, Mr. Brooks' speed may have contributed to the accident.
According to police reports and court documents, Mr. Brooks was westbound on U.S. 42 at about 57 mph. The posted speed limit was 55 mph, with another sign suggesting 35 mph because of the construction, Mr. Rittgers said.
Mrs. Mick struck Mr. Brooks' vehicle when she at tempted to cross U.S. 42 to Miller Road from Ohio 48. Mr. Brooks' 1989 Mercury Tracer spun around and crashed into a telephone pole.
City Prosecutor Jim Whitaker said he does not think Mr. Brooks' speed played a role in the crash.
The trial is expected to last two days.
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