Hassett hit & run suspect gets 3+ years

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - The woman responsible for a hit-and-run crash that left Providence city councilor Terrence Hassett seriously injured, will spend the next three-and-a-half years behind bars.

Tihani Pichardo, 24, pleaded guilty to the hit and run charges in court on Tuesday.

Superior Court Judge Netti Vogel also ordered Pichardo to serve six-and-a-half-years suspended, suspended her license for two years, and ordered her to undergo drug and alcohol counseling for two years.

• Exclusive Video: Pichardo Surrenders

Pichardo was involved in a hit and run on Atwells Avenue on October 29 involving Councilman Terrence Hassett.

Police said Pichardo's 13-year-old passenger claimed Pichardo waited 30 seconds after hitting Hassett, before deciding to drive away.

Pichardo remained at large for six days, until finally agreeing to surrender.

On Tuesday, Councilman Hassett responded to Pichardo's plea.

"I think justice in that case was served," Haseett said, "I wish the very best for her and for her daughter and for her family, that they move beyond this very difficult incident."

Eyewitness News cameras rolled as she turned herself in to Rhode Island State Police.