BBC
A driver who killed a woman in a crash after taking cannabis and cocaine has been jailed for six years.
Jake Cooley, 30, from Doncaster, who had pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving, was sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court on Friday.
On 25 October 2024, Deborah Girgis, 64, was waiting at the Haigh roundabout near Barnsley when her vehicle was hit by a white Vauxhall van driven by Cooley.
Sgt John Taylor of South Yorkshire Police said: “His selfish actions to get behind the wheel with drugs in his system and the lack of concentration cost Deborah her life.”
Cooley was arrested at the scene and tested for drink and drugs. He failed the roadside test for cannabis and cocaine.
Ms Girgis was taken to hospital where she died from her injuries.
Cooley was also handed an eight-year driving disqualification and ordered to resit an extended test.
Sgt Taylor said: “Everyone deserves to return home from their journeys and shouldn’t lose their lives because of a lack of regard from other drivers.
“I hope knowing that he will now serve time in prison for his actions brings Deborah’s family a small amount of closure.”
