Killed foster carer's family "let down" by Crown Prosecution Service

The family of a foster carer who was killed when she was run over by her own car in Sheffield have said they feel "let down" by the Crown Prosecution Service.

On Wednesday (November 29), a 13-year-old boy was sentenced to two years in youth custody after admitting to causing death by dangerous driving.

In a statement shared shortly after the sentencing, Marcia Grant's family said: "We feel completely let down by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and their lack of willingness to allow our mum’s story to be heard and brought to meaningful justice.

"We strongly believe that the evidence on hand shows a complete disregard for human life and clear premeditation to do serious harm."

The family claim the 60-year-old was killed by a young person "wearing a balaclava, carrying a stolen knife, and in the act of stealing her car when he ran her over not once, but twice."

They have also criticised Rotherham Council, claiming decisions made by the authority "played a critical role" in the circumstances surrounding Ms. Grant's death.

Prosecutor Mark McKone KC said Mrs Grant went to the back of the car before the boy reversed, knocking her over.

Mr Grant desperately tried to stop the vehicle, eventually breaking the driver's window as he "pleaded" with the boy.

The boy fled the scene, saying "Sorry, sorry". Mr McKone said.

He asked officers "Is she dead?" before saying "It was an accident, I swear", five minutes later.

A previous court hearing was told that the boy also told police: "Looks like I got my first kill?"

Mrs Grant had been a foster carer since 2016 and the defendant had been staying with her for several days at the time of her death, a judge was told.

The court heard the boy had "an extremely challenging childhood".

Nicola Curley, strategic director of children's services at Rotherham Council, said an independent partnership review will be conducted into the case and Mrs Grant's family will have the opportunity to contribute.

Ms Curley said: "As one of our foster carers, Marcia was well known, much-loved and highly respected in our fostering community.

"She selflessly provided generous love and care to vulnerable children who needed it the most and she is sadly missed by all those who knew her well."

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