Rapper Ghetts jailed for killing student in hit-and-run

Rapper Ghetts Jailed for Killing Student in Hit-and-Run

Justin Clarke-Samuel, known professionally as Ghetts, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for causing the death of a Nepalese student during a hit-and-run incident. The grime artist was also banned from driving for 17 years as part of the ruling.

Case Details

Clarke-Samuel, 41, was found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving after his BMW struck 20-year-old Yubin Tamang in Ilford, northeast London, last October. The collision occurred as Tamang crossed Redbridge Lane at 11:33 p.m., and he succumbed to his injuries two days later in a hospital. The court heard that Clarke-Samuel was traveling at 74mph in a 30mph zone at the time of the crash.

Victim’s Family Statement

“We speak today with hearts broken beyond repair. Our only child, a precious soul, has been taken from us far too soon. He came to the UK to study and create a better life for himself and his family. Justin Clarke-Samuel has stolen our son’s future and ours with it.”

The victim’s mother, Sharmila Tamang, had previously collapsed in court, expressing the “extreme pain” and “unimaginable sense of loss” of losing her sole child.

Court Proceedings

Clarke-Samuel, who was clad in black during the sentencing, sat silently in the dock as the judge delivered his verdict. The judge remarked that CCTV footage revealed a “quite appalling litany of incidents” leading to the fatal collision, which he called “simply shocking.” The rapper had been in custody since his initial appearance at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court on October 27.

Driving After the Crash

Following the accident, Clarke-Samuel drove an additional eight miles before returning home. The court was informed he consumed six or seven shots of Ciroc vodka and a cannabis cookie before his arrest. His BMW was discovered parked near his residence, showing significant damage such as a shattered windscreen and a missing wing mirror cover.

Defense Arguments

Defense counsel, Benjamin Aina KC, highlighted Clarke-Samuel’s remorse and his efforts in the community. He cited a letter the defendant had written, stating: “I write from a place of extreme regret, shame and remorse… I cannot express the enormous feeling of guilt and shame for the suffering I have caused.” The letter also apologized to Tamang’s family, the public, and the court, with no excuses offered for the incident.

Erratic Driving and Further Collisions

The court was shown CCTV footage of Clarke-Samuel’s erratic driving through London’s streets. It captured the moment Tamang was hit and the subsequent crash. Prosecutor Philip McGhee noted that the BMW had thrown the victim into the air before he landed on the road. Tamang was struck at 67mph, exceeding the speed limit by over double.

Additionally, Clarke-Samuel had been involved in a collision with a Mercedes on the same night and narrowly missed hitting a cyclist. In December, he admitted to dangerous driving charges in Tavistock Place and other areas of central London, as well as in Camden, Islington, and Hackney. The judge acknowledged his community contributions but emphasized the impact of his actions. “All that good work is marred by driving in drink and taking the life of another young man,” he concluded.

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