Batley man sentenced after admitting causing death by dangerous driving

Batley man Abdullah Mota, 20, started a three-and-half-year sentence today at Leeds Crown Court after admitting causing death by dangerous driving.

James Edward Cromack, 40, was hit by a car during a collision on Dewsbury Road, at its junction with Skye Road, Tingley, on February 23, and died two days later.

Detective Constable Clare Barran, of the Major Collision and Enquiry Team, said: “James’ death is a tragedy for his loving family.

"He had Cerebral Palsy but refused to let that hold him back in life.

“He had his life cut short.

“Likewise Mota is a young man now has time in jail during what should be some of the best years of his life. Speed was a key factor in this tragic case.

“As an officer who investigates road traffic collisions I see all too often the tragic consequences of what driving too fast can have – for all concerned.

“James’ family have issued a heart-felt tribute – they themselves have said how they don’t want this to ever happen to anyone again and that some motorists think that it won’t matter if they go too fast and that they are in control. They are not.”

The family of a 40-year-old victim have paid tribute to their 'best friend who would always brings positivity and hope'.

In a statement issued through the police service, James’ family said: “James was not just a brother, son or uncle he was a best friend.

"James looked upon life as a gift that should be enjoyed.

“Despite the pain and other problems that his disability gave him, James never let it hold him back or get him down.

"James liked sport, he supported Leeds Rhinos and captained the local snooker team.

"James would always bring positivity and hope, if you were feeling low, he could always lift you up.

“To have had someone so bright and inspirational and then suddenly have them taken away is almost beyond words.

"Without James there's a hole in our lives, a feeling of emptiness, sorrow, loss and grief.

"A part of us has gone and our world will be forever a sadder, duller world.

“Despite this, James would have wanted some hope to come of this horror, he donated his organs so others could treasure life like he did.

“We'd like to thank the nurses who stopped, treated and stayed with James, it's a comfort to know he was not alone and was being cared for.

"We would like to thank the police, who did an extensive thorough investigation and have brought us some closure and justice.

"We would also like to thank all of those who came forward with evidence.”

The court heard how Mota was doing 60 mph in a 40mph zone.

Police are reminding motorists about the dangers they put themselves, other road users and pedestrians in when they speed.

DC Barren said: “The pain James’ family are still suffering is obvious through their words.

“I'd urge people to stop and think for a second about what happened to James and how his family are now having to rebuild their own lives after this tragic incident.”

The family also gave their support to West Yorkshire Police’s #WYPTheCost – highlighting the potential cost of being caught speeding and the consequences of it – which can include prison time a fine and a driving ban in addition to the impact on anyone involved in a road traffic collision.

As part of #WYPTheCost, officers want to drive home the dangers of the ‘Fatal 4’ motoring offences that are most commonly linked to death or serious injury: Speeding, mobile phone use, drink and drug use and not wearing a seatbelt.

Mr Cromack’s family said: “We're having to live with the pain of James’ loss.

“Anything that helps to educate drivers about the risks they put not only themselves but other road users and pedestrians is to be welcomed.

“If it stops just one family from having to suffer what we have had to go through then it has helped to make a difference.”

Mota was also disqualified from driving for four years and nine months.

For more information, visit: www.westyorkshire.police.uk