Lee Sutherland, 32, was jailed for 9 years after killing 77-year-old Margaret Allan in a crash near Cumbernauld, Lanarkshire, while speeding in a defective car
Lee Sutherland Sentenced to Nine Years for Fatal Crash
A Scots TikTok user was sentenced to nine years in prison for killing a pensioner in a crash.
Lee Sutherland, 32, was speeding in a Ford Mondeo with faulty brakes when the accident occurred on June 15, 2023, at the Condorrat Ring Road near Cumbernauld, Lanarkshire.
Sutherland collided with a Peugeot 108 driven by 77-year-old Margaret Allan, who later died from her injuries. A young passenger was also injured.
Details of the Incident
Sutherland attempted to blame Allan, stating, “It would not have happened if the f***ing bitch had not pulled out.”
He was known on TikTok for posting unusual videos, including pretending to be a defense lawyer and reviewing supermarket food.
In October, Sutherland was found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving at the High Court in Glasgow.
Judge’s Remarks
Judge Tom Hughes disqualified Sutherland from driving for 13-and-a-half years and imposed the prison sentence.
The judge noted the severe impact of Sutherland’s actions on Allan’s family and friends. He stated, “No sentence can adequately compensate for their sad loss.”
He added that Sutherland’s behavior led to tragic circumstances and death for Allan and injury for her passenger.
Police Testimony
PC Lawrence Meldrum testified that he witnessed the collision and found the Peugeot “extremely damaged.”
Allan was found confused and dazed, with blood on her head. Sutherland was seen walking away from the scene.
He later made derogatory comments about the officer involved.
Family Statement
John Allan, Margaret’s son, stated, “While today’s sentencing brings a measure of justice, we recognize that no outcome will ever bring our mum back.”
He described his mother as the heart of their family and community, emphasizing their immeasurable loss.
Investigation Findings
Investigators found that the anti-lock braking system in Sutherland’s 12-year-old Mondeo was malfunctioning. The vehicle’s battery was also unsecured.
Sutherland was driving at a minimum speed of 44 mph in a 40 mph zone, likely faster when he began to brake.
Other drivers noted his excessive speed that day.
Prosecution and Defense Statements
Prosecutor Adrian Stalker described Sutherland’s driving as dangerous, stating it was “not just a lack of judgment or momentary inattention.”
Defense attorney Graeme Brown mentioned that Sutherland maintains his innocence and acknowledged the family’s suffering.
Sutherland, originally from Cumbernauld but living in Newcastle, was on bail during the trial.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Lee Sutherland |
| Age | 32 |
| Victim | Margaret Allan |
| Victim’s Age | 77 |
| Incident Date | June 15, 2023 |
| Sentence | 9 years |
| Driving Ban | 13.5 years |
