Award-winning rapper Ghetts has been sentenced to prison for causing the death of a student in a hit-and-run incident. Ghetts, known for his accolades at the 2021 Mobo Awards and the Mobo Pioneer award in 2024, was found guilty of speeding and driving under the influence when he fatally struck a university student in a hit-and-run accident in north-east London.
The court heard that the grime artist, whose real name is Justin Clarke-Samuel, failed to stop after hitting 20-year-old Nepalese national Yubin Tamang with his BMW. Ghetts, aged 41, pleaded guilty to charges of causing death by dangerous driving and dangerous driving. During the televised sentencing at the Old Bailey, Judge Mark Lucraft KC sentenced him to 12 years in prison and a 17-year driving ban.
Judge Lucraft described the CCTV footage leading up to the tragic collision as “appalling” and “shocking.” Despite acknowledging Clarke-Samuel’s remorse and positive contributions to his community through music, the judge handed down a harsh sentence due to the severity of the incident.
Prosecutor Philip McGhee revealed that on the night of the incident, Clarke-Samuel had been drinking in central London, driving at high speeds while being over the legal drink-drive limit. He ignored multiple red lights, collided with other vehicles, and was traveling at 67mph in a 30mph zone when he struck Mr. Tamang.
Mr. Tamang suffered fatal injuries as a result of the collision, while Clarke-Samuel failed to stop and drove home, only to be arrested later. The court was shown CCTV footage of his reckless driving and the moment of impact with Mr. Tamang. Despite claiming he was being followed, no evidence supported his assertion.
With a history of criminal convictions dating back to his teenage years, Clarke-Samuel expressed deep regret and apologized to Mr. Tamang’s family for the unintentional tragedy. His legal counsel highlighted a past traumatic incident that contributed to his fears and poor decision-making on the night of the accident.
The devastating loss of Mr. Tamang, a promising young student with dreams and aspirations, was emphasized by his family and friends in court statements. The incident not only ended a life full of potential but also had a lasting impact on those close to Mr. Tamang.
In light of the remorse expressed by Clarke-Samuel and the gravity of the situation, the court acknowledged the need for accountability and punishment. Despite the tragic outcome, Clarke-Samuel hopes to make amends through the process of rehabilitation and contribute positively to his community.