Reckless drug driver jailed for longer

A speeding drug driver who fled the scene of a fatal crash has had his sentence increased after the Solicitor General, the Rt Hon Lucy Frazer QC MP, thought his original sentence was too low.

Christopher Fenton, 40, was under the influence of cannabis when he crashed into a couple’s car, killing a man and seriously injuring his wife on 6 March last year.

Fenton was driving at 76mph in a 60mph zone when his vehicle collided with Marcus Haynes’ car. Fenton fled the scene and later returned with his mother.

On 10 May at Lewes Crown Court Fenton pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving, and causing serious injury by dangerous driving. He was sentenced to 3 years and 8 months’ imprisonment. He was also disqualified from driving for 5 years and 10 months and must take an extended re-test should he wish to drive again.

The Solicitor General referred Fenton’s original sentence to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.

On 6 July the Court of Appeal found his sentence to be unduly lenient and increased his sentence to 5 years and 3 months’ imprisonment.

Speaking after the hearing the Solicitor General, the Rt Hon Lucy Frazer QC MP, said:

This tragic case highlights the dangers of driving while under the influence of drugs. Christopher Fenton had no consideration for the risk he posed to other road users, and his reckless actions took the life of a man and shattered a family. My thoughts are with Mr Haynes’ family at this difficult time. I am pleased the Court has seen fit to increase his sentence.