Harrison Valley Man Sentenced to Jail Following DUI Crash

COUDERSPORT – A Harrison Valley man has been sentenced to jail as the result of a DUI crash.

On January 14, 2010, State Police responded to a one-vehicle crash on North Fork Road in Harrison Township. Upon arrival police found no individuals at the scene, however, did observe a can of beer on the driver’s side floor of the crashed vehicle.

Police then located the owner of the vehicle; 48-year-old James Pickering, of Harrison Valley, at his residence. Police then observed Pickering exhibiting signs of intoxication, including slurred speech, glassy eyes and confusion.

Pickering admitted to police that he had lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a ditch, and had consumed several beers at a friend’s house, but refused a Field Sobriety Test. A blood alcohol test later showed Pickering to have a BAC of .17%.

On March 2, 2011 Pickering pleaded guilty to DUI (second offense), careless driving and restrictions on alcoholic beverages. On June 1, 2011, Pickering was sentenced in Potter County Court by Judge Stephen Minor to 3 months to 30 months in prison, fines totaling $1,550 and ordered to perform 25 hours of community service.

Potter County District Attorney Andy J. Watson prosecuted the case against Pickering, who was represented by William Hebe, Esq., of Wellsboro, PA.