AceShowbiz - Justin Clarke-Samuel, known professionally as Ghetts, has been handed a 12-year prison sentence for causing the death of a young student in a hit-and-run incident.

The British grime artist pleaded guilty at London's Old Bailey courthouse in December to charges related to the fatal collision that claimed the life of 20-year-old Yubin Tamang. The sentencing took place on Tuesday, March 3.

According to prosecutor Philip McGhee, Ghetts, aged 41, was driving dangerously under the influence of alcohol when the incident occurred. The artist was behind the wheel of his BMW M5, traveling at nearly 70 miles per hour in north London when he struck Tamang.

The court heard that prior to the collision, Ghetts ran red lights and drove on the wrong side of the road. After hitting Tamang, he caused catastrophic injuries and severe damage to his car’s windscreen but did not stop. Instead, he continued to drive approximately eight miles to his home.

In addition to causing death by dangerous driving, Ghetts also admitted to a separate charge of dangerous driving before the fatal crash.

Tamang’s mother, Sharmila Tamang, gave a moving statement through a translator during the trial, expressing her grief. She said, "My son had come to this place to study. But because of someone else's fault, he was killed at such a young age."

Defending Ghetts, lawyer Benjamin Aina revealed that the rapper believed he was being followed due to a previous armed robbery. A letter of remorse from Ghetts was read in court, in which he acknowledged the pain caused and expressed deep regret.

In his statement, Ghetts wrote, "This young man and his family are in my thoughts daily. I cannot express the enormous feeling of guilt and shame I feel for the suffering I have caused."

Ghetts has been a prominent figure in British music, earning accolades such as Best Male Act at the 2021 MOBO Awards and receiving the Pioneer Award in 2024. His fourth studio album, On Purpose, with Purpose, earned him a Mercury Prize nomination the same year.

Over his career, Ghetts has collaborated with notable artists including Ed Sheeran and is regarded as one of grime’s most respected artists.

Following Tuesday’s sentencing, Ghetts will begin serving his 12-year prison term immediately.