James Ashman, 29, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for causing death by dangerous driving and drug supply offences. The collision in October 2022 resulted in the death of cyclist Benjamin Wright, 35.
The big picture: Ashman was driving around 60mph in a 30mph zone when he struck Wright's bicycle. He fled the scene, attempted to cover his tracks, and was found hiding behind a garden shed.
Key details:
The collision occurred on Vernon Street, Ipswich, involving Ashman's Audi S3, a Volkswagen Golf, and a Skoda Fabia.
Ashman was using a hands-free phone at the time of the crash.
He offered £40 to a cyclist for their bike to escape the scene.
Ashman fabricated a story about his car being stolen at knifepoint.
What they're saying: Detective Inspector David McCormack said, "Ashman's actions that evening were dangerous and reckless, and he showed absolutely no regard for the law or other road users – travelling at almost double the 30mph speed limit."
Sentencing details: Ashman received a total prison sentence of 15 years, with 14 years for causing death by dangerous driving and an additional year for drug supply offences.
The court also imposed an 18-year driving ban, requiring Ashman to pass an extended retest before getting behind the wheel again.
As part of the investigation, police seized £5,000 in cash found during a search of the property where Ashman was arrested.
Alfie Hedges, 27, received a suspended sentence for drug supply offences related to the case.
