CNBNews

A 2024 vehicle accident involving the stepson of Downe Township Mayor Mike Rothman has ignited controversy, as residents question the use of taxpayer funds to settle the matter and demand more transparency from local officials.

On June 21, 2024, Nicholas (Nico) Haines was driving along Maple Avenue in the Dividing Creek section of Downe Township when the roadway allegedly collapsed beneath his truck. Haines later shared his experience publicly, claiming substantial financial losses, including the destruction of his truck and tools used for his business.

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Despite Cumberland County’s refusal to offer compensation, Downe Township reportedly issued a payout to Haines using local taxpayer dollars — a decision that has drawn scrutiny given Haines's family relationship to Mayor Rothman. Critics have voiced concerns over a possible conflict of interest and have called for the release of all related documentation, including settlement agreements, insurance reports, and any police investigations conducted at the time of the crash.

Adding to public unease, rumors have circulated that Haines may have been driving while intoxicated or without valid insurance during the incident. If true, such factors could have materially affected the legitimacy of his claims and any settlement agreements. No official police report has yet been publicly released to clarify these issues.

The incident received additional attention at the Cumberland County Commissioners’ work session held on April 8, 2025. During the meeting, Haines provided emotional testimony recounting the night of the accident, his losses, and the resulting hardships. His mother, Nikki Rothman, also spoke, emphasizing the emotional toll on their family and urging the county to act promptly on longstanding infrastructure concerns.

Mayor Rothman, addressing the commissioners both as an official and a parent, expressed frustration over the lack of action by county officials and underscored the need for accountability to prevent future tragedies.

The commissioners acknowledged the family's testimony and moved into a closed session to discuss legal and negotiation matters. However, the lack of immediate answers has fueled further calls from residents for transparency and accountability.

Key questions remain unanswered:

• Was a formal police investigation conducted at the time of the incident?
• Was Haines properly insured at the time of the crash?
• How much taxpayer money was used to settle Haines’s claim?
• Were the settlement discussions and payments disclosed at public meetings, as required by law?

Residents are now demanding a full public accounting of the events leading up to the settlement, how it was authorized, and whether all legal requirements were met.