A hazardous driver collided with a bike, killing him, because he was distracted by his mobile phone while driving.
Terry Varndell used his phone to send texts and make calls before colliding with cyclist David Breen in Chichester.
He then failed to halt at the scene of the collision on the A286 Main Road in Birdham.
Mr Breen, 26, tragically died on the scene minutes later.
Varndell, 37, was not insured to drive his Vauxhall Zafira.
Detective Sergeant Ian Foxton, the investigating officer, stated that “this case demonstrates the devastating consequences of being distracted behind the wheel.”
A jury at Portsmouth Crown Court found Varndell, a former garbage worker from Middleton Close in Bracklesham Bay, guilty of causing death by careless driving.
On Monday, September 23, he was condemned to six years in prison, barred from driving for eight years, and required to pass an extended driving test before being able to drive again.
However, phone records showed Varndell had made multiple texts and calls while driving.
It included calls made soon before the crash.
Mr Breen, originally from County Kerry, Ireland, had been living in Chichester and was cycling home after playing football.
His relatives noted how excited he was about moving into a new flat.
In a victim statement, his mother, Anne Breen, father Anthony, and brothers Shane and Anthony, described how they still feel raw about the incident.
They described hearing the news as the “hardest day of our lives”.
They described David as “funny, caring, ready with the banter, cheeky, lovable, and always on the go”.
Det Sgt Foxton stated, “Varndell drove carelessly and failed to maintain proper awareness of David Breen, who was riding home.
“Sadly, David never made it home that night, and his death has had a long-term impact on his family and loved ones.
“We are aware that driving while distracted, such as using a mobile phone, is one of the ‘fatal five’ practices that result in fatalities on our roads.
“This example exemplifies the grief and heartache that being inattentive and driving recklessly may inflict.
“We were committed to secure justice for David’s family, and we are relieved that a hazardous driver has been removed from our roads.
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