Man Charged With Misdemeanor After Crash That Killed Plymouth Teen

PLYMOUTH (CBS) - The family of a Plymouth teenager, who was killed last December, is frustrated with the state's legal system.

"The charge is leaving the scene of an accident causing bodily injury. It should be leaving the scene causing death," says Rhonda Tay, the aunt of the deceased youngster.

Last December, 14-year-old James Ward was with his father and brother, riding ATVs in the woods of Plymouth. According to police, as James came around a curve, he was hit by 40-year old Chris Kelly who was on a motorcycle.

James' father began administering CPR, and told Kelly to go for help. But police say instead, Kelly just rode away. He's now been charged with leaving the scene of an accident causing bodily harm. Law enforcement sources say that the way the laws are written, it is impossible to charge Kelly with more serious offenses.

Kelly was arraigned in Plymouth District Court Tuesday. If convicted of the misdemeanor, he would only pay a $500 dollar fine.