A driver who killed a 27-year old woman then removed her body from the scene of the fatal crash has been granted compassionate bail.
Steven Cunningham, who is facing “a substantial sentence” for causing for the death of Charlotte McHugh on the Comber Road in Dundonald in June 2021, is to be released from prison for a period to allow him to visit his grandmother in hospital.
Earlier this year the 28-year old, whose address is the subject of a reporting restriction, pleaded guilty to multiple charges arising from the incident.
These charges include causing death by careless driving whilst unfit, driving whilst disqualified and dangerous driving.
He also admitted possessing Class C drugs as well as perverting the course of justice by “participating in the removal of Charlotte McHugh from the scene”.
Following the fatal crash, Ms McHugh’s body was taken from the scene to an address in Dundonald. Her remains were then recovered in the property by the emergency services.
Cunningham is due to be sentenced for all the charges at Downpatrick Crown Court on August 19 by Judge Geoffrey Millar KC, who told a defence barrister his client was facing “a substantial sentence”.
During an application for compassionate bail at Belfast Crown Court, Judge Peter Irvine KC was told by a Crown prosecutor that police were not objecting to it - but asked that several conditions be imposed.
Judge Irvine agreed to release Cunningham from custody between 10am and 4pm on Friday to allow him to attend the hospital and visit his grandmother.
Cunningham will be released temporarily in his own bail of £500 plus a cash surety of £500 from his sister.