BRAZIL, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV)– Brazil Fire Chief John Jacob “Jake” Bennett signed a plea agreement this morning after he was charged in January for leaving the scene of an accident.
According to Special Prosecutor Robert Roberts, On January 7, 2024, Bennett was involved in a collision with a parked vehicle and then he walked away from the scene without notifying the owner of the vehicle as required by Indiana law.
In describing the case resolution, Special Prosecutor Roberts noted, “that the Bennett family recently lost their son in a tragic automobile accident, which the State believes was a contributing factor in both the mindset and circumstances that led to this incident.”
Robert stated that they took into consideration is that “Bennett has honorably served the citizens of Brazil in the capacity as Chief of the Brazil Fire Department for quite some time and lived a law-abiding life prior to the incident. During the pendency of the matter, The State requested Bennett engage in counseling. Bennett agreed and was recently successfully released from his alcohol treatment and will continue with grief counseling.”
Bennett, originally charged with three misdemeanors, pleaded guilty to the two misdemeanors, leaving the scene of a property damage accident and reckless driving. He will be monitored by the court for an additional six months. Conditions of the monitoring include a 4th Amendment Waiver, proof of insurance or restitution, and completion of 40 hours of community service.
