After injuring his friend in a car crash last year, Nick Bollea pleaded no contest today to felony reckless driving.  The 17-year-old was then ordered to serve 8 months in jail.  That sentence nearly equals the amount of time since the crash. 

At the time of the incident, witnesses reported seeing Bollea drag racing against a friend.  His speeds were apparently in the neighborhood of 100 miles per hour.  Although Nick was quickly discharged from the hospital, the other occupant of his car was initially listed in critical condition.  That friend, John Graziano, will now require lifetime medical care.

Nick’s father, wrestler Hulk Hogan, spoke on behalf of his son - and his injured friend - to the sentencing judge.  (You can see that video after the jump.) After speaking about his personal relationship with Graziano, Hulk said his son should not be given any preferential treatment.  He also said Bollea should not become a convicted felon.  He hoped the judge not to give up on his son.

After taking the statements into consideration, the judge issued his sentence.  In addition to the 8 months in jail, Nick will later serve 5 years probation, perform 500 hours of community service and attend DUI classes.  He will also not be allowed to drive for three years nor drink during his probation.