2022-09-25: Rider Down/ Fatality: A31 (H25/88) Holybourne, Hampshire

Sentencing guidelines are a little higher for drug driving, should that be shown to have been the case:

https://www.sentencingcouncil.org.uk/offences/magistrates-court/item/drug-driving-guidance-only/

In this case, the driver has been arrested on suspicion of four offences: 'causing death by driving without due care while unfit through drugs, cause death by careless/inconsiderate driving, driving a vehicle whilst unfit through drugs and driving a motor vehicle with a proportion of a specified controlled drug above the specified limit.'

Obviously, we don't know if he will be charged in the same way, or how such possible charges would work together, but taking just the first suspicion--I assume that 'causing death by driving without due care while unfit through drugs' means 'causing death by careless driving when under the influence of drink or drugs'--, sentencing guidelines suggest that the offence, should it be proven in court, could be seen as more severe than a 'six-month driving ban'.

Maximum: 14 years’ custody, minimum disqualification of 2 years with compulsory extended re-test

https://www.sentencingcouncil.org.uk/offences/crown-court/item/causing-death-by-careless-driving-when-under-the-influence-of-drink-or-drugs-etc/

Needless to say, I understand your scepticism when it comes to actual sentencing outcomes, especially as there seems to be a very low minimum sentence, but this case may be different.

None of this will bring John Froud back, who looks like a class act. Rest in peace.