A killer driver has been warned to prepare for prison after admitting causing the death of a man and leaving three people injured.
Owen Rutherford pleaded guilty to causing the death by dangerous driving of David Hain following a crash on the A68 at Beukley Bank, in Northumberland, on October 1 2023. During an appearance at Newcastle Crown Court, he also admitted three counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving while behind the wheel of a Seat Leon.
Rutherford, of Ridsdale, Northumberland, who suffered two broken wrists and concussion in the crash, will be sentenced next month and was granted conditional bail while pre-sentence reports are compiled.
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Judge Paul Sloan KC told him: “As you have just heard, I’m adjourning sentence in your case to the 24th of February – that’s the next date you must attend court. I’m also directing the preparation of a pre-sentence report by the probation service.
“You should understand, the fact I’m adjourning sentence and directing the preparation of a pre-sentence report is not an indication of the sentence that will be imposed. As you will be aware, you face a significant immediate custodial sentence.
“The length of that sentence will be determined by the judge who deals with you on the sentencing date. I’m going to extend your bail so you can get your affairs in order.”
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