The driver who struck two children in a Papillion crosswalk last summer, killing a ten year old girl, was sentenced to probation in Sarpy County court Friday morning.
After pleading guilty in January to the motor-vehicle homicide of Abby Whitford, Masey Lawrence was sentenced to 24 months probation. The sentence will also include some jail time. Police say Lawrence stayed at the scene following the crash and turned herself in two months later as the investigation unfolded.
Before the sentence was handed down Friday morning, Abby’s mother made a tear-filled victim impact statement. Sara Whitford said she had only just that year started letting all three of her children walk to the library.
Lawrence also made an emotional statement, apologizing to the family and everyone impacted by her actions.
In handing down the sentence, Judge Tricia Freeman said what happened on August 20, 2019, could have been prevented. Pointing out that Lawrence ignored the speed limit sign and flashing lights in the crosswalk. The judge also noted that Lawrence had two previous traffic violations on her record.