Former Derbyshire Officer Charged with Death by Dangerous Driving

Former Detective Chief Inspector Michael Cooper, 54, is set to appear in Nottingham Magistrates' Court charged with causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving. The charges stem from a fatal collision on September 28, 2021, in Egginton Road, Etwall, that resulted in the death of 50-year-old pedestrian James Bane and injuries to another pedestrian. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) conducted an investigation following a mandatory referral from Derbyshire Constabulary, which led to the evidence being submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service for authorization of the charges. An inquest into Bane's death revealed he suffered fatal pelvic injuries, prompting the investigation. Emergency services responded to the incident, which necessitated a significant police presence and closure of the road for several hours. Cooper's court appearance is scheduled for April 10.