Lowell Man Held On $50,000 Bail In Methuen Bus Stop Hit-And-Run
METHUEN (CBS) -- A Lowell man was ordered held on $50,000 bail Tuesday in connection with a hit-and-run that left a Methuen High School student seriously injured.
Robert Jacques, 28, pleaded not guilty at his arraignment Lawrence District Court.
Methuen High School sophomore Joseph Barry, 15, was struck by a pickup truck Monday morning as he attempted to board a school bus. Investigators say the bus was stopped and its warning lights were flashing when the pickup hit Barry and another vehicle and then took off.
In court Tuesday, the prosecutor said Barry was scared and "covered in blood."
He was rushed to Boston Children's Hospital on a medical rescue helicopter.
A police report stated that Barry suffered a ruptured spleen, a fractured arm and leg, internal bruising and a head injury.
Jacques was arrested Monday afternoon.
Officers say he told them he panicked after the crash because his driver's license was suspended.
The prosecutor argued for $50,000 bail, claiming Jacques is flight risk and has shown he doesn't comply with court orders.
According to court documents, he has a number of prior court appearances on several charges including assault.
Jacques's attorney said his client, who has three children under the age of 3, wants to take responsibility for the crash, claiming Jacques made a full confession and turned himself into police.
He argued for a much lower bail of $2,500.
The judge ordered it set at $50,000, an amount Jacques said he cannot afford.
If he is able to make bail, he has been ordered to stay away from the victims, not drive, and wear an ankle monitor.
Barry's family says he was helping younger kids across the street when he was hit by Jacques's pickup truck
The Barry family released a statement Monday night saying he would have surgery on Tuesday or Wednesday.
"Joe is a wonderful young man. He is a straight A student, he is deeply compassionate, and we are proud of him. While the road to recovery is going to be long and difficult, we are profoundly grateful to have this chance. This has been a traumatic experience for our family. We appreciate all of outpouring of support and we ask that you respect our desire for privacy as we begin to navigate the healing process."
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