Debra Cohen, a 61-year-old Skokie resident, has been charged with a Class 4 felony and a misdemeanor, following her alleged involvement in a hit-and-run accident on April 25 that resulted in a 63-year-old woman being injured. Evanston Now reported that Cohen faces one count of leaving the scene of an accident and failure to render aid, while the victim has fortunately recovered from non-life-threatening injuries.
The incident occurred when the victim was crossing Chicago Avenue at Grove Street, subsequently struck by Cohen's silver Honda SUV. Witnesses immediately reported a light colored SUV fleeing the scene, which instigated a police response and swift investigation. Evanston RoundTable provided details from the police, including their use of traffic cameras and license plate readers, that led to Cohen's vehicle identification, and the subsequent stop and arrest of Cohen last week.
During questioning by the Evanston Police Department, Cohen confirmed that she had been driving the vehicle at the time of the incident, an admission that was critical for the prosecution. Cohen's hearing is set for June 16, and it has been noted that despite the severity of the charges, she has not been detained by the Cook County sheriff. The Class 4 felony charge against Cohen could carry a prison sentence of one to three years, or probation for first-time offenders.
The community has been left unsettled by the incident, with many expressing concern over the safety of pedestrians and the actions taken by drivers following an accident. According to Evanston Now, police emphasize the necessity for drivers to stop and render aid in case of an accident, highlighting how crucial those first moments can be for victim recovery and for fulfilling legal obligations.
