Mum banned from driving after fatal fall tragedy

A mother received a 22-month driving ban after being convicted of drug driving, following a tragic incident in 2025. Emma Foden was driving a van when her partner, David Rhodes, fell from the rear, sustaining fatal head injuries. Mr. Rhodes passed away on October 11, 2025, leaving his family devastated. The couple's seven-year-old daughter was present during the incident. An investigation determined Foden was not responsible for the fall, and an inquest recorded a verdict of misadventure. However, drug tests revealed Foden had 4.2 micrograms of cannabis per 100ml of blood, exceeding the legal limit. She pleaded guilty to driving with a controlled drug above the legal limit. The court also imposed a nine-month community order with rehabilitation activity days. Mr. Rhodes' sisters highlighted the profound trauma their niece experienced, losing her father in front of her. The defense noted Foden's difficult past and work with a charity. Magistrates described the case as an emotive one with no clear winners.