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Multiple speeding pleas accepted in Clayton County; judges advise young drivers on safety and payment
Summary
On July 15 State Court Judge Tammy Long Hayward accepted no-contest or guilty pleas in several speeding and driving-related cases. Fines, surcharges and payment instructions were announced; some defendants were given probationary terms or offered defensive-driving credit.
Several traffic-related arraignments were resolved July 15 in State Court of Clayton County, with judges accepting pleas, reducing counts and setting fines and payment deadlines.
Why it matters: Traffic fines, license points and probation conditions can cause license suspensions, affect employment and trigger additional court involvement, especially for younger drivers.
Notable dispositions: - Jayla Iman Douglas (18) pleaded no contest to a reduced speeding charge after completing a defensive-driving course; the court set a fine of $151.50 (including surcharges) and ordered payment processing through the traffic clerk's office on the second floor. The judge warned Douglas that as an 18-year-old a future points accumulation could lead to a six-month driving suspension.
- Tazeria Iyanna Hugley pleaded nolo to speeding 26-30 mph over the limit. Prosecutors credited her for completing a defensive-driving course; the state recommended a $500 fine and the judge imposed $737.50 with surcharges and gave her up to 60 days to pay to avoid probation.
- Rayshawn Lamar Gwen pleaded guilty to speeding 31-34 mph over the limit; the state recommended a $500 fine and the judge gave 60 days to pay the $737.50 total with surcharges.
- Donovan Ellis pleaded guilty to following-too-close; the no-insurance count was dismissed. The judge ordered 12 months pay-only probation conditioned on paying $550 restitution to the victim, Dericka (Derica in paperwork) Gale. Probation will terminate upon full payment.
- Jamontre Taylor pleaded nolo to obstruction (count 1); count 2 was nolle prossed. The state recommended a $300 fine; the court imposed $444 with surcharge and allowed 60 days to pay.
Court instructions: The judge repeatedly instructed defendants to use the chat function to receive sentencing sheets and payment deadlines and emphasized that missing payments can lead to arrest warrants. The court also cautioned younger drivers specifically about distracted driving; Hayward advised that devices or hands-free setups be used only in emergencies and discouraged driving like "NASCAR."
Ending: Defendants were directed to the traffic cashier for payments or to probation for installment plans; the court urged early payment to avoid warrants and reminded drivers that defensive-driving classes may be credited where accepted by the state.
