A dangerous driver has been jailed for more than four years following a fatal collision near Rochester.
During the early evening of 26 October 2020, a 69-year-old man was walking over a pedestrian crossing on Main Road, Chattenden, when he was struck by a car.
Peugeot 208 GTI
The Peugeot 208 GTI, driven by Glen Heaton, had been travelling towards Hoo and came to a halt almost 100 metres past the crossing.
Arrest
Emergency services attended and the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. Heaton, from Hoo was arrested and a sample of his blood was taken for analysis.
Investigators identified that at the time of the collision, the red traffic lights for the crossing had not been activated but that the Peugeot had been travelling in excess of the speed limit.
Heaton was later charged and pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court.
Guilty plea
On Tuesday 30 May 2023, the 42-year-old was sentenced to four years and two months in prison, for causing death by dangerous driving.
A second count of causing death without due care and attention, while a controlled drug in his body exceeded the specified limit, was ordered to lie on file.
Disqualified from driving for six years on release
Heaton will be disqualified from driving for six years on his release from prison and will need to take an extended driving test.
Investigating officer, Detective Constable Faye Murphy said: ‘The dangerous manner of Heaton’s driving has led to a man tragically and needlessly losing his life. He later admitted to being a cannabis user and analysis after the collision showed the levels in his blood to be above the legal limit.
‘Heaton will now have to live with the consequences of his actions that have left a family mourning the loss of a loved one. A prison sentence in these circumstances is entirely appropriate.’