Jordan man takes plea deal and gets probation in fatal snowmobile crash

Last update: April 30, 2008 - 4:07 PM

A Jordan man pleaded guilty Tuesday to criminal vehicular operation in a snowmobile crash that killed his brother-in-law in rural Scott County in March 2006.

Richard G. Hynes, 53, pleaded guilty to the gross misdemeanor offense in return for a more serious criminal vehicular operation charge being dropped, said Scott County Attorney Patrick Ciliberto. He said Hynes was placed on probation for 18 months and ordered to obtain a chemical evaluation and follow all recommendations. He also had to pay $980 in fines and fees.

A test indicated that Hynes was over the legal limit for driving before the crash that killed David D. Williamson, 52, of Prior Lake, who fell off another snowmobile. They were in a group of three men riding near Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve about 9:30 that night.

Ciliberto said the plea was accepted because Hynes' initial statement to police was suppressed by a judge and witnesses at the scene gave conflicting statements.

JIM ADAMS