CPS statement on the Marcia Grant case
Malcolm Christy, District Crown Prosecutor for CPS Yorkshire & Humberside said: “The death of Marcia Grant was a tragedy. The senseless and dangerous actions of the defendant have left her family and friends devastated.
“Due to the seriousness of the case, an immediate charging decision was required, and the defendant was initially charged with murder under our ‘threshold test’.
“Following further investigations by South Yorkshire Police – including a reconstruction of the scene, expert reports and witness statements – we reviewed our initial decision and concluded there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction for that offence.
“This was in line with our duty to keep all cases under continuous review and to ensure the right person is charged with the right offence.
“Today the defendant has pleaded guilty to the offence of causing death by dangerous driving.
“Our thoughts are with Marcia Grant’s family and friends who feel her loss every day.”
Notes to editors
- Further information on our threshold test is available here The Code for Crown Prosecutors | The Crown Prosecution Service (cps.gov.uk)
- For murder to be proved beyond reasonable doubt we must show a defendant intended to cause death or serious injury.
- We consulted with the police and counsel and explained our decision to the family of Marcia Grant.
- The matter has now been adjourned for a further hearing at which the defendant will be sentenced for causing the death of Marcia Grant by dangerous driving and a further offence of possession of a bladed article.
- Sentencing will take place on 1 December 2023 at Sheffield Crown Court.