Teresa Zeppi Sentenced in Fatal Hit-and-Run That Killed Joseph Dralus Sr.
Teresa Zeppi has been sentenced to 364 days in jail and five years of probation following her conviction in connection to a deadly hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of Joseph Dralus Sr.
A jury found Zeppi guilty of leaving the scene of a crash involving death, a charge stemming from a 2021 incident in Manatee County. The crash occurred on U.S. 41, where Dralus, 60, was struck while attempting to cross the road. Zeppi fled the scene without stopping or calling for help.
Investigators later identified Zeppi as the driver through surveillance footage and forensic evidence. Her vehicle, which sustained visible damage, was found hidden at a relative’s property. After an extensive investigation, authorities arrested Zeppi, and she was later released pending trial.
During the trial, prosecutors argued that Zeppi made a deliberate decision to flee rather than render aid or notify emergency services. The jury agreed, finding her guilty of the felony charge.
As part of her sentencing, Zeppi will serve nearly a year in jail and remain under supervised probation for five years. The sentence reflects the seriousness of leaving the scene of a fatal crash and the impact the incident had on Dralus' family and the community.
Dralus was remembered as a devoted father and grandfather. His death sparked public calls for greater driver accountability and reinforced the importance of remaining at the scene of an accident.
The case served as a stark reminder of the legal and moral responsibility drivers have when involved in a crash, particularly when lives are at stake.
