Maddie Hines’ Legacy Honored as Trial Brings Closure to Family
December 18, 2024
The three-day trial of the man responsible for the tragic death of three-year-old Maddie Hines concluded this week, just days before Christmas. The jury deliberated for less than an hour before returning a verdict of guilty on both charges, offering a measure of closure to the grieving Hines family.
The trial, which comes more than a year after the October 2023 accident that took Maddie’s life, was marked by moments of deep emotion and reflection. After the verdict was announced, the court recessed briefly before impact statements were shared by Maddie’s family, allowing their voices to honor her memory and express the profound loss they have endured.
Before sentencing, Judge Addy took a moment to address Chris and Chelsey Hines, extending his heartfelt condolences as a parent. He recounted a personal story about a time when his own daughter, then in her twenties, traveled overseas for a year. As a father, he worried about her, especially during a particular weekend when he was unable to reach her. He recalled the relief of receiving a call the following Monday morning, when she said, “I’m fine, I’m safe, and I love you.”
Looking at Maddie’s parents, Judge Addy said gently, “I’m sure if Maddie could speak to you now, she would tell you – I’m fine, I’m safe, and I love you.”
The trial’s conclusion one week before Christmas serves as a bittersweet moment for the Hines family and close friends. While there can never be full closure after such a tragic loss, the verdict affirms that Maddie’s life mattered, and her memory will endure. Her short three years on this earth were filled with love – for her family, for her friends, and for Jesus.
“We miss her every day, but knowing justice has been served brings a small measure of peace,” Chelsey Hines said. “Maddie’s light will continue to shine through all who knew and loved her.”
Maddie’s legacy is larger than life, a reminder to cherish each moment and love deeply. Her memory, as Judge Addy’s words suggest, can serve as a gift to all of us this Christmas season: Life is short – make it matter.
On Wednesday, Judge Addy sentenced the defendant, Arteaga, to 10 years for reckless homicide and 45 days for driving without a license, with credit for time served.
As the Hines family faces another Christmas without their precious Maddie, her life and light continue to inspire all who knew her. May her memory bring peace to her loved ones and remind us all to hold our families a little closer.
