Detroit dad Shawn Weimer accused of letting 9-year-old drive van may plead guilty, says lawyer

(CBS) DETROIT - The Detroit father accused of having his 9-year-old drive his van to a gas station last month is considering pleading guilty to second degree child abuse, according to his lawyer.

The Detroit Free Press reports that this plea could mean probation for Shawn Weimer and would spare his daughter from having to testify if the case went to trial.

Weimer's attorney, David Steingold, said "In the end, Shawn's going to do what's best for his daughter."

His daughter did testify once before in 33rd District Court in Woodhaven that Weimer drank half a bottle of whiskey before she drove the van on Oct. 8. Weimer is charged with fourth-degree child abuse, a misdemeanor, and allowing a person without a license to drive.

A Dec. 20 date hearing was set after Weimer's arraignment Tuesday. Steingold said they have yet to decide whether they are going to proceed to trial or resolve the matter at the current stage.