Elderly Driver In Wal-Mart Crash Pleads Not Guilty

Louis Vesprini, 93, of Brooksby Village, Peabody, pleaded not guilty today in Salem District Court to negligent operation of a motor vehicle. Judge Richard Mori allowed Vesprini to remain free on his own recognizance and continued the case until December 3 for a pre-trial hearing.

The judge ordered him not to drive while this case is pending, and imposed a bail warning. His license was revoked by the Registry of Motor Vehicles after the Danvers Police Department requested that Vesprini be deemed an immediate threat.

Vesprini was allegedly behind the wheel of his Toyota Camry on June 2, 2009, when it went through the front door of the Wal-Mart off Route 114 in Danvers. The crash injured a 25 year-old Gloucester mother and her 1 year-old daughter. The baby underwent surgery for her facial and head injuries.

The Commonwealth was represented at today’s arraignment by Essex Assistant District Attorney Colleen Cashman. Vesprini is represented by Attorney Paul Markham of Melrose.

The maximum sentence for negligent operation of a motor vehicle is two years in the House of Correction.

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