Local officials in Hopkinton, Rhode Island say a weekend crash shocked residents for more than its impact. Police revealed that the woman charged in the incident has been arrested about 100 times before. The accident happened Saturday near 42 Spring Street, also known as Route 138 in Hope Valley.
According to a police statement, officers arrived to find a pedestrian who had been out walking his dogs hit by a car. Investigators say the vehicle was driven by 41 year old Shannon N Godbout of Canonchet Road. Police say she was traveling eastbound when she veered out of her lane and struck several objects before hitting the pedestrian.
The department said Godbout’s car hit two telephone poles and continued onto the shoulder, where the man was walking. Hopkinton Police released their statement to major outlets including Reuters and regional media, calling it an active investigation.
Police say history raised concern
Authorities also noted Godbout’s lengthy arrest history. Local media widely reported that she has been taken into custody around 100 times before. Police did not elaborate on the nature of her past charges, but the revelation stirred concerns among residents.
Public safety agencies often track repeat offenders. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, records and supervision systems exist to monitor individuals with significant arrest histories here.
Victim recovering as investigation continues
The unnamed pedestrian was treated for his injuries. Police have not released more details about his condition or whether charges will expand as investigators review the crash.
Hopkinton Police say the case remains under review and further updates will be shared as they confirm facts. For now, residents are left reacting to a crash that turned routine dog walking into a frightening event and has raised questions about repeated run ins with the law.