70-year-old David Napper from Chale has been given 300 hours community service for causing the death of 21-year-old Reese Mitchell by careless/inconsiderate driving.
Napper, of Appleford Road, appeared before the Isle of Wight Magistrates Court today (Tuesday) charged with causing the death of the young Islander by driving his Jeep Cherokee without due care and attention on 4th October 2015.
Reese, a motorcyclist from Brading, was travelling north on Military Road near Atherfield when he went to overtake David Napper’s vehicle. The court today heard how Napper did not check his mirrors before moving out to overtake the two vehicles in front of him, resulting in a collision with Reese Mitchell’s motorcycle that was already alongside. Tragically, Reese was pronounced dead at the scene after colliding with railings at the side of the road.
At the time of the incident Mr Napper – a retired teacher – was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, however was later charged and now sentenced with the lesser charge of causing death by careless/inconsiderate driving.
Napper, who pleaded guilty, has been given 300 hours community service, a 2-year driving ban with no requirement for an extended retest and ordered to pay £145 in court costs.
