Cop PC Daniel Francis Avoids Jail Over Fatal Crash
PC Daniel Francis, 33, has been handed a suspended sentence for a tragic collision that killed 23-year-old Andrew Brown.
Shock Crash on Zebra Crossing
The crash happened just after midnight on 1 November 2019 in Whitton Road, Hounslow. PC Francis, driving a marked police car, sped off after a vehicle from which a firework was thrown. His car struck Andrew Brown and a 16-year-old boy on a zebra crossing.
Andrew Brown sadly died in hospital on 5 November 2019, while the teenager suffered serious injuries.
Sentence and Punishments
At the Old Bailey on 4 February, PC Francis pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended for two years. He must also complete 240 hours of unpaid work, 20 days of rehabilitation activity, and observe a four-month electronic curfew.
Additionally, PC Francis is banned from driving for 18 months and will have to take an extended driving test before getting behind the wheel again.
Investigation and Police Response
The crash was independently investigated by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). Following their findings, PC Francis was charged after a referral to the Crown Prosecution Service.
He remains on restricted duties while a separate misconduct probe continues.
Chief Superintendent Sean Wilson said: “This is a very sad case. Our thoughts are with Mr Brown’s family and friends and we offer our sincere condolences for their loss.”
“The IOPC, which is fully independent of the police, launched an investigation into this case and we fully co-operated. Our officers are aware that if their driving falls below the expected standard, they can be prosecuted and brought to account.”
