Driver charged with hitting trooper during Ironman pleads to lesser charge
LEELANAU COUNTY, Mich., (WPBN/WGTU) -- The man accused of hitting a state police trooper with his car during the Ironman Triathlon has taken a plea deal.
On Friday, James Berta, 82, pleaded guilty to a lesser charged of reckless driving.
Berta could face up to 93 days in jail and/or a maximum of $500 fine.
Investigators said Berta hit a trooper that was stationed at the intersection of Plowman Road and M-72 during the Ironman triathlon in August after he was told to turn around.
According to investigators, Berta hit the trooper in the back of the legs with the front of his vehicle, causing the trooper to stumble.
The trooper was not injured in the incident.
The original charge against Berta, assault with a dangerous weapon, will be dismissed at sentencing.
The assault charge could have been punishable by up to four years in prison and a fine up to $2,000.
Berta is scheduled to be sentenced on October 11.
