The daughter of a great-grandmother killed by a teenager on an illegal e-bike has described his sentence as an 'insult to our mum's life.' Julie Francis, one of Gloria Stephenson's four daughters, appeared on BBC Breakfast to pay tribute and demand more police resources to tackle illegal e-bikes.
Fatal Crash in Sunderland
Billy Stokoe, then 18, overtook a stationary car on Burdon Road, Sunderland, and struck Gloria Stephenson on a zebra crossing as she walked her dog last May. Despite efforts from motorists and bystanders, she died at the scene.
Ms Francis told BBC Breakfast: 'It's really difficult to find the words because mum was such a huge part of our life. We are absolutely devastated. That's compounded by the rage we feel at the injustice of the sentence. It's an insult to our mum's life.'
Reckless Driving and Sentence
Stokoe was under the influence of cannabis, riding with a phone in hand, and had defective brakes. He fled the scene. Court footage showed him weaving through traffic and flying over roundabouts before the crash. He was sentenced to six years and nine months for causing death by dangerous driving but could be released in half that time.
Ms Francis said: 'The judge had an opportunity to send a really strong message, and in our view he failed to do that.' She added that police need resources to tackle illegal e-bikes, and sentencing must be stronger.
Appeal Under Review
The Crown Prosecution Service is appealing the sentence under the unduly lenient scheme. A spokesperson for the Attorney General's Office confirmed multiple requests have been received and the case is being considered within 28 days.
Paying tribute, Ms Francis described her mother as 'an extraordinary woman, very fit, healthy, strong, and an independent role model. Now she's just gone. Everyone is devastated.'
