Crime & Safety

Man Apologizes to Family 30 Years After Arrest

Michael Faria apologized to the victim's family this week in court - 30 years after his arrest.

Michael Faria of Portsmouth appeared in court this week and pleaded "not guilty" to a .

Outside the court, Faria, who was convicted of reckless driving nearly 30 years ago, gave a tearful apology to The Coffey family of Middletown. 

To view Faria's apology and comments, view the NBC 10 video here. 

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The Coffey family of Middletown previously expressed outrage after this second arrest of Faria nearly 30 years after an accident dramatically altered their lives. 

Neil Coffey's then 9-year-old daughter Meredith suffered a permanent traumatic brain injury after the 1983 accident. The accident involved Faria, who was convicted then on a reckless driving charge, reports WPRI. 

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Now, nearly 30 years later, Faria is back in court again. He was arrested on July 15 at his home after a motor vehicle crash on Dexter Street.

A vehicle had struck a parked car and fled the area. However, the vehicle left behind a piece of evidence — its license plate. Police tracked the license plate back to its owner, Faria. 

He was arrested and charged with driving under the influence or DUI. 

Faria pleaded "not guilty" at his arraignment. He is due back in court for sentencing on Sept. 6. 


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