Range Rover driver killed while under the influence of cocaine
A drug dealer from just across the Somerset border has been jailed for nine years after being involved in a fatal crash[1] last year.
31-year-old Ben Clough pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving when under the influence of drink or drugs at Salisbury Crown Court on December 14. Clough, of Sambourne Gardens, Warminster[2], was driving along the A350 Yarnbrook in a Range Rover on April 4, 2022 when he crossed the central white lines, colliding head on with a Nissan X-Trail being driven by 69-year-old Robert Godfrey. Sadly, Godfrey, who was from Westbury, died at the scene.
Clough was breath tested and drug tested, returning a positive drug wipe for cocaine, and was subsequently arrested. Following Clough’s sentencing, Wiltshire Police have paid tribute to Godfrey.
Community road safety officer PC Charlotte Sartin said: “Firstly, I’d like to pay tribute to Robert’s family for their courage and bravery throughout this ordeal.
On April 4 last year, Clough put many people’s lives at risk by choosing to get behind the wheel while under the influence of cocaine. “Unfortunately, his actions led to the death of Robert. Not only that, in February this year while on release under investigation before a charge was authorised by the CPS, Clough was stopped by officers again under the influence of cocaine.
“Caring and loyal” Robert Godfrey died at the scene of the crash in April 2022 (Image: Wiltshire Police)
“Clough’s incredibly reckless and dangerous actions had already led to the death of Robert and it’s shocking to think he willingly chose to drive while under the influence of drugs again.
Nothing can bring Robert back but hopefully this lengthy sentence will bring his family some closure and lead Clough to reflect on his actions.” Throughout the month of December, Wiltshire Police is running its drink/drug drive campaign, which sees officers carrying out early morning and late night vehicle checks, targeting individuals who appear over the limit or under the influence of illegal drugs. The force added: “Our message is simple: Don’t risk it.”
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References
- ^ fatal crash (www.somersetlive.co.uk)
- ^ Warminster (www.somersetlive.co.uk)
- ^ Woman seriously injured as her BMW collides with two other cars (www.somersetlive.co.uk)
- ^ M5 was closed for 12 hours after lorry carrying potatoes flipped (www.somersetlive.co.uk)
- ^ Click here (www.somersetlive.co.uk)