Pocono News Section

Suspect Avoids Jail in Connection with Hit & Run

Suspect Avoids Jail in Connection with Hit & Run - Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at 5:40PM EST

Reported by: Eric Deabill
Tuesday, Oct 27, 2009 @ 05:40pm EDT
SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY - A Scranton woman will not go to prison in connection with a violent hit & run last year. Jennifer Weinerth was sentenced Tuesday morning.

The 21-year-old was originally facing a slew of charges and prison time. In early July, she struck a deal with prosecutors and pleaded guilty to one charge, conspiracy to commit false reports. As a result, she was sentenced to two years probation. The first three months will be served under house arrest.

The accident she was charged in connection with severely injured Jackie Nieratko.

"Since the beginning of this, Jennifer has taken responsibility for her actions. She's been totally cooperative with the commonwealth. She's the one who stepped forward. She's been honest and truthful throughout this incident," defense attorney Bernie Brown said.

The hit & run happened in September 2008 on Davis Street. Weinerth admitted to filing a false police report. She was trying to help her boyfriend hide his car at the time.

"I'm just happy that she's able to walk out of here and put this behind her. She was never in trouble before. This was a terrible relationship and a terrible incident," Brown said.

Weinerth's boyfriend at the time, Corey Zaleski, has also pleaded guilty in connection with the case. His charges are much stiffer. He is still awaiting sentencing.

The victim, Jackie Nieratko, continues to recover. She was not in court Tuesday morning.

Weinerth's attorney says his client now hopes to talk to her.

"Moving forward here, she'd like to put this behind her, confront Jackie, apologize to Jackie and take responsibility for her actions," Brown said.