DUI offender sentenced after deadly accident

By Cecilia Green

Published on April 19, 2006

John Smoter was given a two year jail sentence in addition to two years probation and counseling for the accident that killed Paul Bongiovannia. The judge also ordered Smoter to head a program for junior firefighters after his release from prison so that he can teach them about the dangers of drunk driving.

The accident occurred in August after a fireman's convention. Smoter got behind the wheel of his vehicle after the convention with a blood alcohol level that was more than twice the legal limit. As he was driving home, Smoter crossed over the center line on Route 271 and was involved in a head on collision with Paul Bongiovannia. Bongiovannia died at the scene.

Smoter broke down in the courtroom as he apologized to the Bongiovannia family. The family, knowing that Smoter's punishment will not bring Paul back, hopes that Smoter will spend the rest of his life helping others.

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