Drug-Driver’s Sentence Upped After Deadly Crash
A reckless drug driver who killed a pedestrian in Bolton has had his prison term boosted after the Solicitor General stepped in.
Speeding on Drugs in Stolen Range Rover
Rizwan Ali, 26, hired a Range Rover fraudulently using his brother’s licence. On 17 August 2018, he nabbed the car. The very next day, he smashed cannabis and cocaine at a friend’s wedding before getting behind the wheel.
Ali tore through Bolton at more than double the 30mph speed limit, pushing 60mph. His high-speed joyride ended in tragedy when he slammed into 65-year-old Colin Olawumi, who was crossing the road.
Fatal Crash and Court Drama
Ali tried braking and swerving but couldn’t avoid the fatal hit. Olawumi died instantly.
Initially, Ali was jailed for 3 years and 5 months in June 2020 at Bolton Crown Court. But the Solicitor General, Rt Hon Michael Ellis QC MP, rapped the original sentence as too lenient and referred it to the Court of Appeal.
Jail Time Increased to Five Years
On 8 October, the Court of Appeal agreed and bumped up Ali’s sentence to five years behind bars.
“Ali killed an innocent victim through his dangerous driving and deserves a longer sentence. I am glad the Court of Appeal has increased his sentence today and I hope this gives some closure to the victim’s family,” said Solicitor General Michael Ellis.
