Man jailed for causing death by dangerous driving

A family have paid tribute to “a true gent” who “brought laughter to everyone he knew”, after a man was jailed for causing his death by dangerous driving in 2023.

David Haggard, 53, from Beare Green, was convicted of causing the death of 76-year-old Jack Charalambous following a trial at Kingston Crown Court.

Shortly before 6.45pm on 16 March 2023, Haggard was driving his Nissan Note along Croydon Lane, Banstead when he clipped a kerb three times before drifting into the path of Jack Charalambous’s Mazda 2, which was travelling in the opposite direction. The two vehicles collided and sadly Jack Charalambous died at the scene.

Haggard was also not insured to drive at the time of the collision.

Today (Tuesday, 6 January) he was jailed following sentencing at Kingston Crown Court.

Haggard was sentenced to six years in prison for death by dangerous driving, with a three-month sentence for causing death while driving uninsured to run concurrently (at the same time).

He was also disqualified from driving for a total of nine years and 11 months and will have to pass an extended test after this time to regain his licence.

Investigating Officer Amilia Bishop said, "This was a wholly avoidable tragedy caused by David Haggard driving in what the Judge concurred was a manner 'significantly over the threshold of dangerous driving, for a significant period of time'.

“My thoughts remain with Jack Charalambous' family, who have had to endure unimaginable loss as a result of this incident. I would like to thank them for their patience and grace throughout the trial, which has been incredibly difficult for them.

“I would also like to thank the Forensic Collision Investigator PC Jo Robins for her tireless work on this case, and PC Andy Searle who dedicated himself to supporting the family as their Family Liaison Officer.

“We all hope that today's sentence provides some sense of justice for Jack's family and serves as a stark reminder that every decision made behind the wheel can change lives forever."

The family of Jack Charalambous have paid tribute following sentencing:

“We are all devastated by the death of Jack, a loving partner, brother, father, and grandfather. He is missed by his family and the community of Thornton Heath where he had his established barber shop of 40 years.

“Jack was a larger-than-life character who loved people and brought laughter to everyone he knew. He was a true gent and a pillar of the community through his business and fundraising events he was involved in.

“As a family we thank the two witnesses who stopped to help Jack in his final moments of life and for being there for him.

“No sentence will ever be enough for the reckless behaviour of Mr Haggard, who showed his true colours during the nine-day-trial. Thankfully the jury recognised his guilt, and our sincere thanks are extended to them, the judge, and everyone involved in putting this man behind bars.”

Above: David Haggard