A Richmond woman was sentenced today after pleading no contest to reckless driving causing death.
On Wednesday, February 12, 2024, it is alleged that Courtney Ellise Niezgoda, 28 years old, drove through a red light and struck another vehicle, resulting in the death of 63-year-old Tina Yaney of Macomb. She was charged with Reckless Driving Causing Death, a 15-year felony. On Monday, April 21, 2025, Niezgoda pleaded no contest as charged.
Niezgoda was sentenced in Macomb County Circuit Court before Judge James M. Maceroni. Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Dale Vande Vrede represented the people at the sentencing. There were about 60 people in the courtroom in support of both sides. Five members of Yaney’s family provided statements to the court, along with dozens of letters of support that were previously submitted from Yaney’s friends and family.
After a thorough and well-reasoned analysis of the facts and circumstances of the case, Maceroni sentenced Niezgoda to three years of probation with the first eight months to be served in the Macomb County Jail, with two days of credit. She is also ordered to perform 100 hours of community service while on probation.
“This case is a tragic reminder that choices behind the wheel can have deadly consequences. We will continue to pursue justice for victims and do everything we can to prevent such senseless loss," said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido.
On Wednesday, February 12, 2024, it is alleged that Courtney Ellise Niezgoda, 28 years old, drove through a red light and struck another vehicle, resulting in the death of 63-year-old Tina Yaney of Macomb. She was charged with Reckless Driving Causing Death, a 15-year felony. On Monday, April 21, 2025, Niezgoda pleaded no contest as charged.
Niezgoda was sentenced in Macomb County Circuit Court before Judge James M. Maceroni. Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Dale Vande Vrede represented the people at the sentencing. There were about 60 people in the courtroom in support of both sides. Five members of Yaney’s family provided statements to the court, along with dozens of letters of support that were previously submitted from Yaney’s friends and family.
After a thorough and well-reasoned analysis of the facts and circumstances of the case, Maceroni sentenced Niezgoda to three years of probation with the first eight months to be served in the Macomb County Jail, with two days of credit. She is also ordered to perform 100 hours of community service while on probation.
“This case is a tragic reminder that choices behind the wheel can have deadly consequences. We will continue to pursue justice for victims and do everything we can to prevent such senseless loss," said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido.
