Man convicted of killing man in Tipton following hit and run

A man has been found guilty of killing another man in a collision in Tipton in February 2021.

Carlton Betts, 28, was found guilty in his absence for causing death by dangerous driving at a trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court on 15 April.

Darren Whitehouse was stood talking to a friend when he was hit by a stolen car on St Marks Road on 27 February.

Betts drove off leaving Darren lying in the road. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, Darren died at the scene.

Darren’s friend fortunately suffered minor physical injuries, but was left devastated and traumatised by the incident.

Betts dumped the car nearby in Griffiths Street, before returning to St Marks Road.

However, he didn’t make himself known and left.

An investigation was launched, and Betts was identified as a suspect and arrested.

After a lengthy investigation he was charged and released on court bail, however he failed to attend court and was absent for the trial.

After being found guilty by a jury, a warrant for his arrest was issued and last Thursday (24 April) the 28-year-old was arrested in Tipton.

Betts has been remanded into custody until his sentencing at a date to be determined.

Detective Sergeant Paul Hughes from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “This verdict won’t bring Darren back, but it will help his family someway to moving forward. They have constantly fought for justice for Darren and have patiently waited for this verdict and I thank them for that patience and belief in my team.

“Despite knowing what he has put Darren’s family through, Betts still tried to avoid facing up to what he did, instead putting the family through more pain.

“With Betts now behind bars, he can finally face justice for Darren’s death and the pain he has caused Darren’s family and friends.”