Defendant pleads guilty after multi-vehicle crash; restitution hearing set

Valente Vega Arteaga pleaded guilty in Clayton County State Court on Jan. 13, 2025, to speeding and related driving charges stemming from a multi-vehicle crash that left multiple people injured and several cars heavily damaged. Judge Tammy Long Hayward accepted the plea after the state described its factual basis and victims gave statements on the record.

The plea covers two cases: 2021CR07986 (speeding) and 2024CR05669 (a collision case with multiple counts, including driving without a CDL and following too closely). Assistant prosecutor Shurana Haegler told the court the state’s recommended disposition for the collision case includes 12 months probation, 40 hours of community service, a $500 fine, and restitution to victims; count 3 in that case was to be nol prossed. For the speeding case (2021CR07986), Haegler said the defendant was clocked at 71 mph in a 45 mph zone and recommended a $150 fine.

Judge Hayward took victim statements before sentencing: Lisa Blackman and Candy Tilly described physical injuries and vehicle damage and said they went to the hospital after the crash. The judge told the victims they will receive notice of a restitution hearing by mail and explained that restitution can cover out-of-pocket costs.

The court ordered: the speeding fine ($150 plus surcharges) to run concurrent with count 2 of the collision case; count 2 of the collision case to receive 12 months probation with the balance probated and a fine of $100 (plus surcharges); count 4 to run consecutive to count 2 with 12 months probation, 40 hours community service, and a $500 fine; and a restitution hearing to determine recoverable out-of-pocket expenses for victims. The judge emphasized that probation will be reduced only if all special conditions, fines and restitution are satisfied.

Judge Hayward also reminded the defendant that bonds previously posted may be applied to fines and fees and that failure to comply with probation conditions could result in arrest and additional charges. Vega Arteaga was placed on probation and ordered to report to probation for intake and conditions; the court scheduled a restitution hearing by mail notice for victims. The court put the defendant in a probation conference with the probation officer before release from the hearing.

The court record shows multiple injured parties and property damage; the amount of restitution will be set at the hearing and victims will have an opportunity to present supporting documentation. The judge said the court may shorten the second 12-month term of probation if the defendant completes restitution and other conditions.