Teenager admits causing girlfriend’s death in jet-ski accident

A TEENAGE Briton yesterday pleaded guilty to causing the death of his 16-year-old girlfriend in a jet-ski accident last week off the coast of Pissouri.

James Dudley, 16, of North Wales was accused of causing death through want of precaution through recklessness or negligence. The teenager also pleaded guilty to minor charges relating to illegally driving a jet-ski without a licence or completing the required official forms.

Hannah Sutton, from Cheshire, died from severe head injuries when the jet-ski driven by Dudley collided with hers.

She was rushed to hospital where she succumbed shortly afterwards.

The court adjourned until today for sentencing. Dudley faces a maximum penalty of up to four years in custody and a heavy fine.

His parents and lawyer were anxious to avoid a custodial sentence, and Dudley may have pleaded guilty as part of a deal with the prosecution to do just that. The boy reportedly has a strong desire to attend Hannah’s funeral, which is due to take place on Friday.

“James is desperate to attend the funeral; Hannah’s parents want him to attend,” the 16-year-old’s lawyer said.

Hannah’s parents do not blame Dudley for their daughter’s death, which they suggested was the result of the water sports managers not enforcing the regulations.

Two Limassol men, the owner of the water sports, Christakis Ioannou, 45, and his 29-year-old manager also face charges of violating the law on high-speed vessels for renting the jet-ski to underage persons.

Only people over 18, and with proper licence can hire such vessels.

Dudley’s uncle, Rhys Williams, was in court in Cyprus. Williams said the youngster was “shocked” when the judge decided he should be held in cells. “James was shocked by that and clearly upset. He wants to be here with Hannah’s family. He has now got to spend 24 hours by himself in a cell.”