Driver in 2020 fatal crash placed on probation; widow of motorcyclist endorses sentence

A Northampton man charged in connection with the October 22, 2020, death of a motorcyclist in Westhampton was placed on probation for five years and lost his license until at least October, 2025, after pleading guilty to a charge of negligent operation of a motor vehicle in Northampton District Court.
Thomas Hanley, 78, admitted before Northampton District Court Judge Jacklyn Connly that he had crossed over a double yellow line on Route 66 in Westhampton, directly into the path of a motorcycle being operated by David Foster, 57, of Huntington. Hanley was attempting to turn into a driveway after spotting a free lawn chair alongside the road. Foster died the next day at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner later ruled that Mr. Foster’s death was caused by blunt impact injuries sustained in the collision.
In a plea and sentencing agreement recommended jointly by Northwestern Assistant District Attorney Andrew Covington and Northampton defense attorney Paul Rudof, Hanley pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of negligent operation of a motor vehicle from the original charge of negligent motor vehicle homicide. Judge Connly placed these conditions on Hanley’s term of probation: that he not seek reinstatement of his license any earlier than Oct. 22, 2025, that he not operate a motor vehicle while on probation; and that he notify the Northampton District Court Probation Department when seeking reinstatement of his license.
“These are among the most difficult cases when trying to come up with a fair sentence. The Commonwealth believes this sentence incorporates a fair punishment, the ability to allow the defendant to be rehabilitated, and a safety component to the general public,” said ADA Covington. “Thanks go to the State Police for their hard work on this tragic case.”
Hanley told investigators that just prior to the crash he turned left into a driveway, going into the path of Foster’s oncoming motorcycle, causing it to crash into the side of Hanley’s truck.
In arriving at the recommendation on the sentence, ADA Covington said the Commonwealth considered Mr. Hanley’s age, his lack of prior record, and the fact that Mr. Foster’s wife, who showed overwhelming compassion and forgiveness towards Mr. Hanley, was comfortable with the recommendation