2 weeks Ago
A STUDENT has said her self-confidence has been "shattered" after she was left with life-changing injuries at the hands of a dangerous driver. Naqaa Al-Farai, who studies psychology with neuroscience at Essex University, prepared a victim impact statement ahead of a sentencing hearing on Thursday when Jamie-Lee Craven was jailed for 25 months . Ipswich Crown Court heard Craven led police on a 60mph chase through Greenstead so he could avoid being caught without car insurance and a driving licence.
He lost control of the car and crashed into a bus shelter, causing Miss Al-Farai traumatic head injuries. Sentencing – Naqaa Al-Farai attended Ipswich Crown Court on Thursday where Jamie-Lee Craven was jailed for 25 months (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest) The victim entered court using a walking stick and sat in the public gallery whilst the court was shown videos of the crash and pictures of her injuries. Miss Al-Farai’s victim impact statement, which was read by prosecuting barrister Charles Judge, described how the incident had turned her life “upside down”.
She said: “Before the accident I was vibrant, confident and outgoing – I loved being with my friends attending events and meeting new people. “I thrived in social settings – I was known for my positivity, energy, and was always willing to try new things and have new adventures.” It continued: “The scars on my face and body remind me of the pain I have gone through – I feel so self-conscious.
“The shame I feel about my appearance is overwhelming. “I feel a loss of trust in people and now find it very difficult maintaining relationships. “I often feel guilty about the accident and it has caused a severe deterioration in my family’s emotional health, especially my parents.
” Jailed – Jamie-Lee Craven (Image: Essex Police) She said her parents had to pay for several trips from her native Oman to the UK to help her whilst she recovered. Speaking to the Gazette outside court, Miss Al-Farai said she still worries if she will make a full recovery. She said: “I am not fully recovered and it is not certain how long it is going to take.
“I have walking issues and I have problems which have been noted by the physiotherapists – they are not sure how long it is going to take or if it is going to be a temporary thing. “I have injuries and scars all over my body.”.
