Driver denies killing cyclist on Leeds road, but may not stand trial until 2028
A driver has denied killing a cyclist in a crash in Leeds, but may have to wait until 2028 before he stands trial.
Darren Jarrett is accused of being over the drug-drive limit and colliding with 47-year-old Graham Johnson in July 2024.
Jarrett, 47, appeared at Leeds Crown Court this morning where he formally entered not-guilty pleas to causing death by dangerous driving and causing death by careless driving while being unfit through drugs.
A trial date was set was March 27, 2028, but the judge - the Recorder of Leeds Guy Kearl KC - admitted that the wait was “not acceptable”, and will look to bring it forward.
The trial is expected to last at least five days.
Jarrett, of Amber Gardens, Gipton, was given bail and is expected to appear for another hearing in June next year.
Mr Johnson died in hospital on 25 July last year after being involved in the collision with a white Vauxhall Insignia which was being driven on Easterly Road in the Seacroft area.
It happened at around 2.30pm, earlier that day.