Killer Driver Convicted

A DISQUALIFIED driver who took drugs before causing a collision that killed a 37 year old woman has been convicted.
Lee Rance, 43, knew he was high on drugs and serving a driving ban when he got behind the wheel of his Mini Cooper on the evening of Tuesday 20 May last year.
At around 11.30pm, a British Transport Police officer became concerned about the Mini’s speed along the A1159 in Southend. When the officer activated his blue lights in an attempt to pull the car over, Rance accelerated away.
The officer did not engage in a pursuit but continued along the road. A short time later, he came across the wreckage of the Mini, which had collided with a tree.
Rance was found in the driver’s seat.
Rance’s front seat passenger, Carly Hicks, was taken to hospital in a critical condition, where she sadly later died.
Officers recovered drugs including cocaine and heroin, while a firearm bearing Rance’s fingerprint was found stashed in a carrier bag behind the driver’s seat. A mobile phone recovered from the car and linked to Rance contained messages consistent with drug supply.
Further tests found a cocktail of drugs in his system, including cocaine, morphine, diazepam, methadone and prescription medication.
Rance, of Frobisher Way, Shoeburyness, denied the following charges: Causing death by dangerous driving, possession of a firearm when prohibited, two counts of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.
He was convicted on all counts following a trial at Basildon Crown Court and will be sentenced at the same court on Thursday 30 April.
In a statement, Carly’s family said: “The loss of our beautiful Carly will leave a hole in our hearts that cannot be healed, and life will never be the same.
“Some of Carly’s best qualities were her ability to see the good in others and her kindness, even if others did not deserve it.
“She had an infectious smile and a distinctive laugh you could recognise anywhere.
“Carly was taken from us prematurely as she sadly gave her trust and kindness to the wrong person, and that ultimately led to the end of her life.
“She had suffered a great amount of bereavement in her life. Despite this, Carly was an incredible mother to her two beautiful daughters, who now have to navigate life without her.
“Carly was a beautiful soul who left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of meeting her.
“She was a strong, irreplaceable member of our family, and we will miss her contagious smile and zest for life.”
Detective Sergeant Sam Nason, of our Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Rance inexplicably tried to deny his horrific offending in this case, prolonging the agony of all those who loved Carly and want to see justice done in her name.
“Rance made a series of despicable decisions that night, which not only cost Carly her life but also risked the lives of other road users.
“These guilty verdicts fairly reflect the catastrophic harm caused by his actions. My thoughts today are with Carly’s family and friends, who continue to suffer as a result of Rance’s behaviour.
“Police first responders and ambulance service colleagues worked incredibly hard at the scene as they tried to save Carly’s life, and I would like to pay tribute to them.”
Pictures: Carly Hicks & Lee Rance
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