The former fiancée of 'Home Improvement' star Zachery Ty Bryan has been sentenced by an Oregon court following a dramatic incident last November where she attempted to run him over.
Guilty Pleas and Court Sentence
Johnnie Cartwright, aged 32, appeared in court in Oregon this week where she pleaded guilty to misdemeanour charges of driving under the influence (DUI) and reckless driving. According to reports, a further charge of recklessly endangering another person was dismissed by the court.
Her sentence, handed down on Wednesday, includes 24 months of probation for each of the two guilty pleas. She must also pay a $1,500 fine alongside an additional $255 fee specifically for the DUI conviction. The court ordered that these financial penalties be paid in monthly instalments of $50, beginning on 1st March.
Driving Ban and Sobriety Conditions
In significant further restrictions, Cartwright's driver's license has been suspended for one year. Once her driving privileges are restored, she will be required to use an ignition interlock device in her vehicle. The court has also prohibited her from possessing or consuming alcohol and from visiting establishments where alcohol is the primary product sold.
She must complete a Quantitative Risk Assessment and other mandated programmes. Failure to comply with these conditions could result in further jail time: an additional 20 days for the DUI and 10 days for the reckless driving charge.
Background of the November Incident
The sentencing relates to an event on 29th November in Eugene, Oregon. Police reports state that Cartwright and Bryan, who share three young children, were driving together with the children in the vehicle. An argument ensued, leading Bryan to exit the pickup truck and walk down the road.
Authorities allege that Cartwright, while impaired, then attempted to strike Bryan with the vehicle, ultimately crashing into a ditch. Police noted that Bryan managed to avoid injury and that no one inside the vehicle was hurt. Both individuals were arrested at the scene; Bryan for a probation violation related to a previous charge.
During the sentencing hearing, Cartwright addressed the judge, stating she was present to 'take accountability' and that 'everything happens for a reason'. Her attorney described Bryan as her 'ex-partner' and indicated Cartwright is financially dependent on him. The lawyer added that Cartwright is currently living with her mother, has custody of the children, and is committed to maintaining her sobriety.
