The trial for the police driver involved in a fatal crash has been moved up, now set to start in October instead of May next year
Gateshead: A police officer from Darlington was involved in a serious crash that led to a tragic outcome. PC Mark Roberts, 56, was driving a marked police car when he collided with a motorcycle on Dunston Road near the Metrocentre on July 8, 2022.
Sadly, 74-year-old Muriel Pinkney, a passenger on the bike, passed away in the hospital nine days after the accident. Her husband, Ronald, who was riding the motorcycle, suffered multiple fractures.
The incident prompted an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which wrapped up in December 2023. The findings were then sent to the Crown Prosecution Service, leading to charges against PC Roberts.
During a plea hearing at Durham Crown Court, he denied causing Mrs. Pinkney’s death and serious injuries to her husband through dangerous driving. However, he did admit to causing their injuries through careless driving.
The prosecution didn’t accept his pleas and plans to move forward with the dangerous driving charges. Initially, the trial was set for May 11, but it has now been moved to the week of October 6 this year, which is a significant change.
PC Roberts has been granted bail and must submit his defense statement by March 28. It’s a tough situation for everyone involved, and the upcoming trial will be closely watched.
