Wisconsin Woman Says Can't Afford Restitution in Van Fire Deaths, Injuries

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Updated: 7:20 PM Aug 23, 2008

Wisconsin Woman Says Can't Afford Restitution in Van Fire Deaths, Injuries

KEWAUNEE, Wis. (AP) _ A Luxemburg woman whose minivan caught fire, killing two children in her care, says she can't afford $18,000 in restitution for medical costs or funeral expenses.

Posted: 1:06 PM Aug 23, 2008
Reporter: Associated Press

Wisconsin Driver in Fire that Killed 2 Children Opposes Restitution

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KEWAUNEE, Wis. (AP) _ A Luxemburg woman whose minivan caught fire, killing two children in her care, says she can't afford $18,000 in restitution for medical costs or funeral expenses.

Investigators say Susan Laluzerne left six children unattended in her van while she went in a store in Luxemburg last November. The van caught fire, killing 9-month-old Amelia DeMeuse and 2-year-old Dylan DePetro.

The fire's cause wasn't determined, and Laluzerne got a six-day jail sentence and year's probation for running a day care without a license.

At a hearing Friday, her lawyer said the Laluzernes can't afford the restitution.

But the victims' attorneys disagreed, one noting the family just bought a car.

The judge made no immediate decision.

Still unsettled is $500,000 Laluzerne's auto insurance company set aside for claims.

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