Drunk and drug driver jailed for killing cyclist

An intoxicated driver who killed a cyclist in a hit-and-run crash has been jailed for eight years and eight months.

Jessica Berry, 26, who was under the influence of drink and drugs, killed James Raeburn, 40, in the collision in Wimborne on 4 October 2023.

Berry, from Corfe Mullen, previously pleaded guilty to causing his death by dangerous driving while over the limit for alcohol and cannabis.

She has also been banned from driving for five years following her release from prison.

Berry also admitted charges of failing to stop after a road traffic collision and driving a vehicle in a condition likely to cause danger of injury at her plea hearing at Poole Magistrates on 3 June.

The crash, involving a red Vauxhall Corsa, happened shortly after 22:10 BST in Julian's Road.

Mr Raeburn died at the scene.

Dorset Police said two men noticed the car with a damaged windscreen parked in Jubilee Road, Corfe Mullen, before finding the collision scene a short time later.

Following Tuesday's sentencing at Bournemouth Crown Court, Sgt Mike Burt, of the Roads Policing Team, said: "At the sentencing hearing, the judge commended the two members of the public who assisted in locating Berry’s vehicle.

"I would like to take the opportunity to personally thank them as well for their quick-thinking actions and the vital assistance they gave to this investigation."

Following his death, Mr Raeburn's family said he was an "amazing and caring person" who had "overcome a lot of obstacles" in life.

"His life was just coming together, and he was the happiest he has ever been," their tribute added.

Follow BBC South on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].