"Genuine remorse" helps free driver from jail * A lorry
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driver who nodded off at the wheel and was jailed for dangerous driving has been freed from a 15-month prison sentence after he showed "genuine remorse". Peter James Mitchell of Helpringham, Sleaford, Lincs had his sentence cut by the Appeal Court to seven months, allowing his immediate release, and his five-year driving ban was cut to three years.
Mitchell was jailed at Stafford Crown Court on 8 July this year for causing the death of Terry Reeves by dangerous driving.
Mr Justice Mance said the accident had happened as Mitchell was returning home on the M5 after an early morning delivery. Traffic was slow moving because of roadworks and an accident ahead and speed reduction signs were flashing. Mitchell was driving well over the recommended speed of 50mph when he ploughed into the back of the victim's car.