On Saturday, December 31, 2016, at 9:15 p.m., the Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office investigated a motor vehicle accident in the 200 block of North Lincoln Avenue, Graettinger. Following the investigation, the Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office determined that Noah Flaherty (16), of Graettinger, was driving a 2006 Pontiac Torrent northbound in the 100 block of North Lincoln. While driving, Flaherty attempted to retrieve an item on the floor of the vehicle. In doing so, Flaherty failed to stop for the stop sign at the intersection of North Lincoln and West Olive Street. After traversing the intersection, Flaherty struck an unattended 2003 Chevrolet Venture, owned by Thomas Murphy.
There were no injuries reported in the accident. Flaherty’s vehicle sustained an estimated $2,000.00 in damage. Murphy’s vehicle sustained an estimated $1,500.00 in damage. The Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office cited Noah Flaherty with failure to obey a stop sign, which is a simple misdemeanor.
A criminal charge is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.