David Cassidy, 65, star of the popular 60’s television show “The Partridge Family” and former teen idol has pleaded no contest to several driving charges recently in a Florida court, agreeing to probation and surrendering his driver’s licence for five years. Cassidy faced a year in jail for each count of causing property damage, leaving the scene of an accident, reckless driving, and driving with a suspended license. Eyewitnesses put Cassidy behind the wheel of his Kia Sportage that was seen weaving in and out of traffic before sideswiping a package delivery truck. Witnesses reportedly heard him saying “point me in the direction of Albuquerque”.
Due to his erratic driving behavior, investigators presumed that drugs or alcohol could have been a factor in the accident. Immediately identified as Mr. Cassidy, police did not apprehend him until some time after the accident when he did not appear to be intoxicated. Cassidy has a history of DUI arrests in California, New York, and Florida. Cassidy is currently serving a five-year probationary sentence in California.
Hit and run accidents require that the driver of the vehicle remain at the scene of the accident until the police arrive to do their job. Leaving the scene of an accident that involves property damage is a Second Degree Misdemeanor and carries a jail sentence of up to 60 days, six months probation, and a $500 fine.
Reckless driving where property damage has occurred is considered a first-degree misdemeanor, with penalties of up to 1 year in jail or 12 months of probation, and a $1,000 fine.
In Florida, a first offense for driving with a license that you know has been suspended can result in 60 days jail and a fine of up to $500.00.
Source: http://www.sun-sentinel.com/local/broward/fl-david-cassidy-plea-20160328-story.html