CLINTON COUNTY, Pa. (WHP) — A mother is demanding accountability after her children were hit by a car driven by a former sheriff's deputy, who will not face jail time.
On Nov. 18, 2025, Manda Haines' children, Eli and Raelynn, both 4 years old, were struck at a Clinton County intersection. The impact of the collision was severe, as captured in a widely shared video. The driver, former Clinton County Sheriff's Deputy Gunner Vuocolo, faced multiple charges but was ultimately ordered to complete a rehabilitation program instead of serving jail time.
According to Haines, Raelynn suffered a concussion and extensive bruising, while Eli sustained various injuries including scratches. “We had the walk signal,” she said. “He wasn't paying attention and turned into the wrong lane.” Both children are now in therapy to cope with the emotional aftermath of the accident.
Vuocolo was accepted into Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD), a diversion program that allows for probation without jail time. “He was facing three to five years with all the charges,” Haines stated, expressing frustration over the leniency. The charges included reckless driving and multiple counts of reckless endangerment.
Haines criticized the outcome, stating, “If he was a random person, not a sheriff, he would be in jail.” The family is seeking an apology from Vuocolo and considering legal action. They continue to struggle with the memories of the incident, avoiding the intersection where it occurred.
The sheriff's department confirmed that Vuocolo is no longer employed, but noted that his termination was unrelated to the accident.